Philosophy, Theology and the Jesuit Tradition - by Anna Abram & Michael Kirwan & Peter Gallagher (Hardcover)

Book Synopsis

What does it mean to do theology and philosophy in our contemporary academia? What is the notion of good life in the 21st century university? One distinctive tradition of philosophical and theological investigation has been working since early modernity to offer answers to these questions, the Society of Jesus, founded in 1540 by Ignatius of Loyola.

The engaging and original contributions in this volume examine topics such as faith, science and reason, secularism, naturalism, humanism and Ignatian spirituality. The opening text outlines the vision of Jesuit education and is followed by historical analyses of sources such as St Ignatius of Loyola and Mary Ward, to show the relevance of these methodologies for other texts and practices. The contributions explore the relationship between philosophy and theology, challenge the dominant perspectives such as naturalism and secularisation, and propose a new way of thinking. This livelydiscussion engages with contemporary issues in the sphere of interreligious dialogue, bioethics, citizenship and human rights.

Review Quotes

The Jesuit Constitutions, after dealing with spiritual formation, insist that "it will be necessary to provide for the edifice of learning, and of skill in employing it, so as to help make God our Creator and Lord better known and served." This is the vision inspiring the worldwise network of Jesuit schools and universities. Heythrop College, a distinguished example, has produced a remarkable collection of essays to honour this Jesuit tradition. The authors, philosophers and theologians, enter into dialogue with concerns as varied as education, science, nature, Islam, bioethics and secularism. Any enquiring mind will find much to relish in this volume.
Brian O'Leary, Milltown Park, Dublin

About the Author

Anna Abram is Senior Lecturer in Christian Ethics at Heythrop College, UK.

Peter Gallagher SJ is Head of Philosophy at Heythrop College, UK.

Michael Kirwan is Lecturer in Systematic and Pastoral Theology at Heythrop College, UK.