Public Theology for the 21st Century

'... a very significant moment in the history of public theology over the past fifty years or so, taking stock of and renewing a sense of social vision in theology ' Raymond Plant, King's College, London and the House of Lords This major book is a unique stocktaking of the issues facing public theology at the beginning of the 21st century, combining retrospect and prospect. The contributors are leading Christian theologians and social theorists from Europe, North and South America, Africa and Asia. Part one surveys the legacy of the 20th century and asks what should be carried over into the third millennium. There are authoritative essays on political and public theology in Germany, Argentina, South Africa and Britain. In part two, the contested legacy of modernity itself is considered, revisiting such ideas as freedom, toleration, human rights, pluralism, environmental stewardship and God in history. Part three addresses globalization, offering a range of critical interpretations of this key concept for public theology in the 21st century. The final part offers theological and ethical insight into some of the most pressing public issues of the new century - medical ethics, punishment and forgiveness, inequality, social exclusion and political participation. Throughout, the authors engage with the public and theological concerns that have shaped the life and work of Duncan B. Forrester, to whom this book is dedicated. Public Theology for the 21st Century is a landmark publication for all those concerned about theology's contribution to public debate in the churches, the academy and society. William F. Storrar is Professor of Christian Ethics and Practical Theology, and Director of the Centre for Theology and Public Issues, University of Edinburgh. Andrew R. Morton is an Honorary Fellow in the School of Divinity, and a former Associate Director of the Centre for Theology and Public Issues, University of Edinburgh.