Christianity and Criminal Law

This collection of essays provides historical, theological, philosophical, and legal perspectives on Christianity and criminal law, exploring the contributions of Christianity to the development of criminal law and its implications for contemporary society. It is a valuable resource for students and academics in the fields of law and religion, legal philosophy, and theology.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 358 pages
Publication date: 01 February 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive collection, brought together by esteemed legal scholars, judges, practitioners, theologians, and church historians, offers a multifaceted exploration of Christianity and criminal law. It delves into historical, theological, philosophical, and legal perspectives, providing a rich tapestry of insights.

The book commences with a Preface penned by Lord Judge, a former Lord Chief Justice of England and Wales, setting the stage for the insightful journey ahead. The subsequent chapter serves as an introductory guide, laying the foundation for the subsequent chapters.

The book is structured into four thematic sections, each offering a distinct perspective on the interplay between Christianity and criminal law.

Part I explores the historical contributions of Christianity to criminal law, drawing upon biblical sources, early church fathers, and canonists, extending up to the Enlightenment era. It sheds light on how Christian principles have shaped the development of criminal law throughout history.

Part II delves into the intricate relationship between Christianity and the principles of criminal law. It examines the concepts of crime and sin, explores the notion of mens rea and intention, and critically evaluates the importance of due process within the criminal justice system. The authors also explore the virtue of forgiveness and its role in criminal justice.

Part III examines Christianity and specific criminal offenses, tracing their Christian origins and examining their enduring relevance in contemporary legal systems. It explores the Christian foundations of various basic crimes that are universally prohibited by legal systems across the globe.

Part IV delves into the complex dynamics of Christianity and the enforcement of criminal law. It explores defenses, punishment, and the concept of forgiveness within the criminal justice framework. The authors offer valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities that arise when applying Christian principles to criminal law enforcement.

This book serves as an invaluable resource for students and academics engaged in the fields of Law and Religion, Legal Philosophy, and Theology. It provides a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach to understanding the complex relationship between Christianity and criminal law, offering a rich tapestry of insights that will deepen their understanding and appreciation of this important subject matter.

Weight: 584g
Dimension: 156 x 235 x 27 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367495787