Happiness and the Christian Moral Life: An Introduction to Christian Ethics

As one of the most widely adopted textbooks in the field, Happiness and the Christian Moral Life introduces students to Christian ethics through the lens of happiness. Drawing on classical and contemporary Christian sources, Paul Wadell proposes that the heart of the moral life is not rules and obligations but our deep desire for happiness and fulfillment.

The fourth edition of this accessible and student-friendly text has been revised and updated throughout. It introduces Christian ethics with sensitivity towards readers who may not be Christian themselves. After setting out the principal argument of the book in the opening chapter, subsequent chapters explore the importance of narrative or story for Christian ethics; a Christian understanding of the person and vocation; the role of the virtues in our quest for happiness; the centrality of justice in the moral life; the place of friendship and community in a good and flourishing life; a Christian theology of freedom; how sin hinders one's growth in happiness; the meaning and importance of conscience; and a Christian understanding of love.

The fourth addition also includes new sections on several topics, such as the Beatitudes; forgiveness and reconciliation; the social thought of Pope Francis; the challenges of climate change and global warming; recent thinking on gender and sexual ethics (by theologian Bridget Burke Ravizza); a "politics of charity"; and racism and ongoing racial conflict. This edition also features fresh, global examples, revised introductions to key thinkers and figures, expanded treatment of the theological virtues, and a list of key terms at the end of every chapter.

Paul J. Wadell is professor emeritus of theology and religious studies at St. Norbert College. He is the author of several books, including Friendship and the Moral Life; Becoming Friends: Worship, Justice and the Practice of Christian Friendship; and Happiness and the Christian Moral Life: An Introduction to Christian Ethics (now in its 3rd edition).