Reviews
"Those of us who regularly teach introductory courses in theological ethics know how difficult it can be to present the relevant theories and issues in an effective way. So it is very high praise indeed when I say that Mattison has written a first-rate textbook for beginners in this challenging field. Appropriating Aquinas's organizing principle of the virtues, he draws together the main strands of the Catholic moral tradition in such a way as to reveal its inner logic, and to present this in a clear, accessible, and attractive way. He wears his considerable learning lightly, and while he clearly aims to present traditional Catholic moral teachings, he does so in a way that invites thoughtful engagement and dialogue. This would be suitable in a number of undergraduate and seminary contexts, and scholars in the field will find much of value here as well."--Jean Porter, Rev. John A. O'Brien Professor of Theology, University of Notre Dame"Introducing William Mattison, hospitable teacher, imaginative lecturer, brilliant raconteur, innovative (yet traditional) moralist, and above all, fellow journeyman on the road to the Kingdom of God! With his casual style, Mattison welcomes his readers into an engaging conversation about the virtuous life, discovered not through some tired lesson plan but through everyday lived, familiar, and shared experience. As he tackles hard questions, from drinking and sex to euthanasia and war, Mattison guides us to see the full possibility of virtue ethics. This no-nonsense book is filled with wisdom, humanity, and graciousness! Get it now!"--James F. Keenan, SJ, Founders Professor of Theology, Boston College"William Mattison's Introducing Moral Theology provides an excellent overview of the key issues concerning the Catholic approach to the moral life. He presents a clear exposition of basic Catholic principles and interprets them in light of concrete moral issues that will appeal to undergraduates. His writing is engaging as well as fair and balanced. Students in Catholic colleges and universities will benefit enormously from this fine overview."--Stephen J. Pope, professor of theological ethics, Boston College; author of Human Evolution and Christian Ethics "The new wave in theology is virtue ethics, and Mattison rides it to new systematic heights. He lays out the role of virtue in the good life, shows how virtue relates morality to the rest of theology, then applies virtue ethics to concrete quandaries of Christian living today. Designed as an engaging classroom text, this book will also interest scholars of ethical theory."--Lisa Sowle Cahill, Monan Professor of Theology, Boston College
