Christian Ethics and Moral Philosophy: An Introduction to Issues and Approaches - Paperback

by Craig A. Boyd (Author), Don Thorsen (Author)

This introductory textbook presents Christian philosophical and theological approaches to ethics. Combining their expertise in philosophy and theology, the authors explain the beliefs, values, and practices of various Christian ethical viewpoints, addressing biblical teachings as well as traditional ethical theories that contribute to informed moral decision-making. Each chapter begins with Words to Watch and includes a relevant case study on a vexing ethical issue, such as caring for the environment, human sexuality, abortion, capital punishment, war, and euthanasia. End-of-chapter reflection questions, illustrations, and additional information tables are also included.

Back Jacket

Christian Ethics and Moral Philosophy helps readers understand and engage a range of approaches to ethics in an inviting and accessible fashion. More than a descriptive enterprise, this book will help all who read it to grow in their capacity for moral discernment.
--Vince Bacote, Center for Applied Christian Ethics, Wheaton College

"Boyd and Thorsen expertly bring theology and philosophy into conversation with each other in a volume that lucidly explains the varying theories while also offering case studies in applied ethics. Students and a broader audience will greatly benefit from this work."
--Mary Veeneman, North Park University

"An excellent introduction to Christian ethics and moral philosophy. It is clear, comprehensive, and accessible with many illuminating examples and clearly explained central concepts. The book would be excellent for college students taking a related course or for anyone wanting to learn more about how morality and ethics are central to the Christian life. I highly recommend it."
--Michael S. Burdett, University of Nottingham

"The relationship between theological ethics and philosophical ethics is complicated. Boyd and Thorsen have given us an accessible introduction to this difficult intellectual terrain, one that orients student s to the key typologies and terms necessary to think as a Christian about the moral life today."
--Kent Dunnington, Biola University

"At last, an introduction to ethics that is simultaneously scholarly, comprehensive, and accessible. The authors have crafted a well-written and engaging book that is aimed at students with little philosophical or theological background. This text should make teaching ethics much more enjoyable and effective for both students and teachers."
--Brent Waters, Stead Center for Ethics and Values, Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary

"An excellent treatment of moral philosophy and moral theology from an explicitly Christian perspective. While rigorous, the text is approachable and applicable and illuminates many of the ethical issues that we face today. An excellent resource for students as well as for all interested clergy and laity in the church."
--Kevin Timpe, Calvin College

"The perfect text in Christian moral theory. In addition to lucid treatments of the topics, it contains all the accoutrements that make a great text, including engaging case studies and listings of key terms for each chapter."
--Michael L. Peterson, Asbury Theological Seminary

"This is a textbook as well as a primer for the field of Christian ethics. It will serve as the standard in its class for many years to come."
--Paul Allen, Concordia University

Author Biography

Craig A. Boyd (PhD, Saint Louis University) is professor of philosophy at Saint Louis University in St. Louis, Missouri.

Don Thorsen (PhD, Drew University) is professor of theology and director of the Master of Divinity program at Azusa Pacific Seminary in Azusa, California.