Moral Theology: Dead Ends and Alternatives

Moral Theology This book is a systematic treatment of moral theology from the perspective of liberation theology. It not only surveys the evolution of Catholic moral theology but lays the foundations for a Christian ethic in a world of injustice. In a courageous balanced readable way Moser and Leers examine moral theology--past and present--and explore liberation theologys central ethical principles. They show how moral theology led to dead ends first by the scholastic morality and then by the renewed morality of contemporary western Europe. The first they argued failed through concentration on the individual as the main subject. To move forward Moser and Leers propose moving social political and community factors to the forefront of moral concern. They find the foundations of this approach first in the covenant of the Old Testament and in the classic and enduring theme of New Testament spirituality: the following of Christ. They ask tellingly how this commitment can be carried out today by asking what sort of society Christ envisaged and how he faced the powers of his time. A hard-hitting critique form a third world perspective . . . . The authors rightfully challenge the reigning idolatries of power money technology pleasure and superiority. Pressing beyond Marxism and capitalism Moser and Leers offer a nuanced and inspiring alternative shaped around biblically-derived principles of incarnation praxis and solidarity. They argue very effectively that although Jesus was no social reformer in the modern sense his ministry has radical social implications. --Lisa Sowle Cahill Boston College A powerful attempt to do moral theology from a liberation theology perspective. Moser and Leers integrate the perspective of the poor contemporary scriptural reflection and traditional Catholic moral theology in a compelling systematic proposal for a renewed moral theology accessible to all based on universal participation in and responsibility for both church and society and responsive to the concrete sins besetting our world . . . . Moral Theology is both creatively fresh and in continuity with our moral tradition. --Christine Gudorf author of Catholic Social Teaching on Liberation Themes Antonio Moser a native of Brazil has lectured for fifteen years in the Franciscan Theological Institute in Petropolis where he also works with base communities. Bernardino Leers born in Holland has worked in Brazil since 1953 where he has taught theology and been engaged in pastoral work among the rural poor.