Augustine and the Environment

(Hardback)

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Description

This volume brings into dialogue the ancient wisdom of Augustine of Hippo, a bishop of the early Christian Church of the fourth and fifth centuries, with contemporary theologians and ethicists on the topic of the environment and humanitys place in and responsibility to it. The contributors vary widely in their estimation of how sustained and useful such a dialogue might be, from outright dismissal of the church father to extended speculation with him and in his spirit. Their conclusions impact our views of God and both human and non-human creation. Such engagement should influence any future discussion of how Christianity and environmentalism can interact or influence one another.

Reviews

This is a WWAD (What Would Augustine Do) book. This is indeed a book of great value and has it has a due place in any classroom where environmental concerns are discussed. It presents the relevance of an ancient voice for modern Christians. * Academia *
The thoughtful and sympathetic retrieval of ancient Christian voices for contemporary concerns is not pass, it is criticaltoo quickly our theological feet are planted firmly in the thin air of the present. Theological memory is essential. This critical volume of theological reflections groundsthe church and society in the Christian belief in the goodness, beauty, and sanctity of Gods brilliant creation. -- A. J. Swoboda, Executive Director of the Seminary Stewardship Alliance

Author Bio

John Doody is professor of philosophy and Robert M. Birmingham Chair in Humanities at Villanova University. Kim Paffenroth is professor of religious studies and the Director of the Honors Program at Iona College. Mark Smillie is professor of philosophy at Carroll College.