Choosing the Good – Christian Ethics in a Complex World

The subject of ethics has always been of fundamental importance for thoughtful Christians, but it has become even more significant in recent years with the recognition of the pluralism and post-Christian context of contemporary society. In Choosing the Good, Dennis Hollinger surveys several different approaches to ethics, considers the most critical issues facing Christians today, and suggests that any viable perspective must be rooted in a Christian worldview. Choosing the Good begins with a survey of the ethical approaches that have been adopted by secular and Christian ethicists. Beyond the common consequentialist and principle-oriented perspectives, an alternative character/virtue approach has recently found wide acceptance, particularly in the work of Alasdair MacIntyre and Stanley Hauerwas. Hollinger provides a critical analysis of these views and suggests that they overlook a critical element, which is the basis found in a uniquely Christian worldview. Next, Hollinger reflects on the application of Christian ethics in what he calls the "complex world" of contemporary pluralism and postmodernism. He examines the complexities of secular society and how these complexities affect Christian ethics. He then explores the factors that influence how Christians make ethical decisions, including Scripture and empirical judgment. Finally, he surveys the questions of justice, pluralism, and Christian influence in the secular world. This volume has grown out of Hollinger's many years of experience in both academic and local church settings. His work is unique in that it surveys common approaches to ethics as well as contemporary issues of critical importance. Sure to find widespread use as a text in colleges and seminaries, it will also provide Christian lay readers with an excellent analysis of the subject.

Dennis P. Hollinger (Ph.D., Drew University) is president and professor of Christian ethics at the Evangelical School of Theology in Myerstown, Pennsylvania. He is the coeditor of the Critical Issues in Bioethics series.

T he vexing complexities of our modern world often generate cynicism or even despair in the face of moral decision making. Choosing the Good proposes a framework for doing ethics with confident humility, despite the cultural context undermining such endeavors. This book accomplishes two goals in that it provides a survey of essential issues salient for reflection on the moral life and Christian ethics, and argues for a particular approach to doing ethics. Dennis Hollinger provides a survey of perspectives, suggesting that an effective Christian ethic must have its basis in a Christian worldview. He examines the complexities of our pluralistic and postmodern society, reflects on factors that influence Christian ethical decisions, and surveys the questions of justice, pluralism, and Christian influence in the secular world. "An outstanding resource--an ethics text that is deeply Christian, conceptually clear, personally engaging, and intellectually substantive! This is an exceptionally helpful book for Christians concerned about the moral life. Hollinger provides a clear map to guide readers through the rugged terrain of competing theoretical frameworks and complex practical questions." -- Christine Pohl, professor emeritus of Christian ethics, Asbury Theological Seminary"Much that is written in Christian ethics today focuses on only specific contemporary issues or is limited to a Christian perspective far removed from the world in which we live. In delightful contrast, Dennis Hollinger's work, while rich in application, is richer still in ethical theory, cultural critique, and historical, theological, and empirical analysis. Hollinger also accomplishes the difficult feat of staying closely in touch with today's pluralistic culture while remaining genuinely biblical and theological in outlook. Every time I finished a chapter I found myself more eager for another one. That's a good sign." -- John F. Kilner, emeritus fellow, The Center for Bioethics and Human Dignity

In Choosing the Good , Hollinger presents an intelligent discussion of the foundations and methods in ethics and ways to apply a Christian worldview to our secular culture. He surveys several different approaches to ethics, considers the most critical issues facing Christians today, and suggests that any viable perspective must be rooted in a Christian worldview. (55)

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