Redeeming Autonomy: Theology, Agency, Social Justice

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What can theology offer philosophical discussions of autonomy In this distinctive collection of essays, Insole and DeSpain lead a cadre of academics from across the world in answering this question. In doing so, they challenge the narrow conception of liberalism that has characterised much of the discussion around autonomy.

The contributions disrupt traditional methodologies by starting with analyses of urgent and concrete situations where the concept of autonomy is employed, misappropriated or even challenged. These scenarios include essays on trauma, transgender issues, disability and end-of-life debates. This volume also explores broader political issues that relate to autonomy such as democracy, the economy and migration.

Each chapter maintains a focused concern with social justice whilst demonstrating how a religious dimension can expand our understanding of the concept of autonomy. This is sure to be a valuable resource for any theologians, philosophers or intellectual historians looking to view autonomy from a fresh and contemporary angle.

Reviews

In contemporary theology, it has become commonplace to note modernitys problematic understandings of autonomy. Redeeming Autonomy takes one important step further. Featuring an impressive array of scholars, it offers deeper, richer accounts of the concept to show how autonomy might not only be acceptable, but even beautiful and necessary. * Natalie Carnes, Baylor University, USA *

Author Bio

Christopher J. Insole is Professor of Philosophical Theology and Ethics at Durham University, UK.

Benjamin R. DeSpain is a Senior Research Fellow in the Institute for Religion and Critical Inquiry at Australian Catholic University, Australia.