Justice and Christian Ethics

Description

Justice and Christian Ethics is a study in the meaning and foundations of justice in modern society. Written from a theological perspective, its focus is upon the interaction of religion and law in their common pursuit of justice. Consideration is given, first, to the historical roots of justice in the classical tradition of virtue (Aristotle and Aquinas) and in the biblical ideas of covenant and the righteousness of God. Subsequent chapters trace the relationships between justice, law and virtue in Puritanism, in Locke, and in the founding documents of the American Republic in the late eighteenth century. In his concluding section, the author develops a covenantal interpretation of justice which includes both law and virtue, both human rights and the common good. Special attention is given to the pluralistic character of modern political societies; to criteria of distributive justice; and to religious resources for the renewal and transformation of justice.

"The persuasive links between law and religion are traced by Professor Gardner with impressive scholarship and erudition." Law Books In Review "A valuable resource for advanced undergraduate and graduate courses in religion, politics, and law, and should be a well-used library holding." Religious Studies Review "...Gardner's work is a very solid, well-documented depiction of justice in the biblical and Puritan traditions. Contemporary instructors in moral philosophy, political science, and theological ethics would benefit themselves and their students by taking Gradner's insights and scholarship into account. Gardner's veryreadable book deserves a still wider readership. American citizens' and residents' understanding of American political structures would be greatly enhanced and their lives greatly enriched by absorbing Gardner's depiction of America's heritage." Arthut J. Dyck, The Journal of Religion "... Justice and Christian Ethics has the merit of making us see how much our modern conceptions of justice have been shaped by our religious past." Ethics