A Primer in Christian Ethics

'The scope, range, and depth of this book is unparalleled among other primers in Christian ethics and I recommend it most highly … At a time when conversations in Christian ethics and political theology are often polarized and polarizing, this text exemplifies alternative ways to think and talk about contemporary challenges in light of the Christian tradition.' Emily Dumler-Winckler, Saint Louis University 'The substance of the material and the rigor of the arguments feel like the author has taken his experience as a teacher working with classrooms that become communities, and sought to translate that experience for larger audiences, as if the book views itself curating a virtual classroom community … One of the book's strongest points is the great diversity of references offered throughout. Bretherton shows wide knowledge of Christian theology and ethics and readers will benefit from the many types of references he makes, from womanist thought to patristics.' Jonathan Tran, Baylor University 'Drawing on an extraordinary range of literatures Bretherton does what few do, that is, he has written a book that explores what is entailed if we are to live well. In the process he puts in conversation liberationist and more formal ethical theory in a way that makes clear why theology matters for ethical reflection. This is a book that is bound to be seen as a decisive intervention for future work in theological ethics.' Stanley Hauerwas, Gilbert T. Rowe Professor Emeritus of Divinity, Duke University 'This is an incredible book to which I will return again and again. It is rich with wisdom from a variety of different philosophical and theological sources from throughout the ages and has real-life application for how this thinking can help us to live life today. Instead of providing answers, Bretherton guides us in how we might think about the issues we are presented with in our daily lives. What I particularly valued about this book is how it demonstrates how the Bible might be used well in public discourse, but shows that it matters how we do so. I also particularly valued the way in which Bretherton draws on the work of Black theologians to not just illustrate points about race and racism, but show their contribution to the vast span of Christian ethical thought and ideas.' Chine McDonald, broadcaster, writer, and director of the religion and society think tank, Theos