Theological Ethics

Abstract

This subject explores the connections between Christian theology and practice, philosophical and theological ethics, and ethical discernment in contemporary society. It examines the biblical, theological, ecclesial, philosophical and scientific resources for Christian ethical reflection and action. Distinctive features of Christian ethical reflection, moral judgements and moral practices are surveyed from … For more content click the Read More button below.

This subject explores the connections between Christian theology and practice, philosophical and theological ethics, and ethical discernment in contemporary society. It examines the biblical, theological, ecclesial, philosophical and scientific resources for Christian ethical reflection and action. Distinctive features of Christian ethical reflection, moral judgements and moral practices are surveyed from various theological and historical perspectives. The subject also considers a range of ethical issues from areas such as politics, economics, war, the environment, medicine and sexuality.

Syllabus

Part I: Is there a Christian ethic? Topics include: the nature of theological ethics; the formation of the moral self, including the relationship between ethics and spirituality; and ethics, practice and Christian community.Part II: Sources of theological ethics in the Christian tradition, including: Scripture; ecclesial community and practice (including liturgical … For more content click the Read More button below.

Part I: Is there a Christian ethic? Topics include: the nature of theological ethics; the formation of the moral self, including the relationship between ethics and spirituality; and ethics, practice and Christian community.
Part II: Sources of theological ethics in the Christian tradition, including: Scripture; ecclesial community and practice (including liturgical practices, tradition); philosophical theories of ethics and their relationship to Christian approaches; and the role of the empirical sciences.
Part III: Discerning a Christian ethic in the contemporary world, including topics from the following areas: politics, public theology; biotechnology and medicine, conceptions of the human person; war, violence, evil and suffering; the environment, justice and consumption, and sexuality.

Assessment items

1. Essay

2. Book Review

3. Final Essay

Learning outcomes

Upon successful completion of this subject, students should:

articulate an advanced critical account of the theoretical nature of theological ethics

identify, articulate and evaluate key biblical, theological, ecclesial, philosophical and scientific resources for Christian ethical discernment and action

identify, articulate and evaluate the main features of the Christian tradition of moral and ethical argument

analyse critically and to apply the resources of Christian theology and ethical thought to a range of contemporary issues, and to articulate a coherent response

reflect critically on their own ethical judgements

demonstrate self-guided learning, including advanced research, writing and communication skills

Assumed knowledge

Students are recommended to have prior knowledge equivalent to or studied THL408, THL409, THL410, THL460.

Enrolment restrictions

Not available to students who have completed THL326 Christian Ethics.

Incompatible

Handbook