The Moral Theology of John Paul II

Description

Pope John Paul II is the second longest serving pope in history and the longest serving pope of the last century. His presence has thrown a long shadow across our time, and his influence on Catholics and non-Catholics throughout the world cannot be denied. Much has been written about this pope, but until now, no one has provided a systematic and thorough analysis of the moral theology that underlies his moral teachings and its astonishing influence. And no one is better positioned to do this than Charles E. Curran, widely recognized as the leading American Catholic moral theologian. Brilliantly constructed and fearlessly argued, this will be the definitive measure of Pope John Paul II's moral theology for years to come.

Charles E. Curran, a Roman Catholic priest of the Diocese of Rochester, New York, is Elizabeth Scurlock University Professor of Human Values at the Perkins School of Theology at Southern Methodist University, USA.

Listed in Theologische Literaturezeitung, no.132, 2007 'Curran draws on a wealth of knowledge and experience to evaluate John Paul II's work. He covers complex matters in his distinctive clear and direct style. For all who want a serious, critical analysis in relation to Catholic social tradition and the development of moral theology, this treatment is unsurpassed.' Lisa Sowle Cahill, J. Donald Monan Professor of Theology, Boston College * Blurb from reviewer * 'Charles Curran has given us a much-needed volume and has done so in masterful vision. Bringing together the teachings of the major social encyclicals with the moral and theological foundations of more general documents such as Veritatis splendor and Fides et ratio, Curran has provided the first comprehensive overview of the papal social perspective. He points to its genuine strengths but likewise shows its inconsistencies and questionable assumptions. No one serious about understanding Catholic social teaching can ignore this work.' John T. Pawlikowski, professor of social ethics, Catholic Theological Union * Blurb from reviewer * 'An excellent overview of John Paul II's moral teaching, and a most valuable resource for studying and assessing the Pope's overall contribution to Christian ethics.' Margaret O'Brien Flatley Chair in Catholic Theology, Boston College * Blurb from reviewer * 'A penetrating analysis of the moral theology of one of the dominant religious leaders of our time by one of contemporary Catholicism's most respected thinkers. Catholics and non-Catholics alike will be impressed by Fr. Curran's insights and criticisms and by the fair-minded and gracious spirit in which he offers them.' J. Philip Wogaman, professor emeritus of Christian ethics, Wesley Theological Seminary * Blurb from reviewer * 'There are books that provide overviews of the teaching of John Paul II and books that delve into the biographical background of his faith and teaching. I know of no book that examines so skillfully and carefully the theological and ethical method the pope utilizes in formulating his moral teaching.' Kenneth R. Himes, chair, Department of Theology, Boston College * Blurb from reviewer *