The Fall of Humankind and Social Progress: Engagements with Emil Brunner

This book explores the relationship between human capabilities and social progress, engaging with Emil Brunner's theological anthropology and discussing perspectives from economics, sociology, and philosophy. It examines the emergence of human nature, capabilities, and their development in a social context, focusing on the impact of sin and the blessings of economic progress. The author aims to contribute to a better understanding of the ethical dimension of social progress and human flourishing, particularly for scholars of analytic and systematic theology, economics, and social sciences.

Format: Hardback
Length: 266 pages
Publication date: 21 July 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This book delves into the intricate relationship between human capabilities and the prerequisites for social progress, engaging with the theological anthropology of Swiss theologian Emil Brunner (1889–1966). Through a dialogue with selected contributors from the contemporary social sciences, including economists Gary S. Becker, sociologists Christian Smith, and philosophers Martha Nussbaum, it explores various approaches to understanding the intersection of theology and other disciplines. This dialogic format serves to clarify both agreements and disagreements, fostering a deeper understanding between theology and other fields. The discussion revolves around key questions such as the emergence of human nature (the person) and the inherent capabilities of human beings, as well as how these develop within a social context. The author specifically focuses on the impact of sin (the Fall) and examines the mixed blessings of economic progress. By offering insights into how to restore the human person in social disciplines, the book aims to contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of the ethical dimensions of social progress and human flourishing. While it will appeal primarily to scholars of analytic and systematic theology, it will also be of interest to economists and social scientists with an openness to theological engagement.

Weight: 670g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032434094