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In contrast to the many scholarly works interpreting Catholic social teaching or the compilations of abstract rules and documents, this book explains that Catholic social teaching is not a moral manual or rule book. Instead, borrowing a phrase from Pope Francis, the author notes that it is rather a grammar of our struggle for justice, love, and peace.
In a concise and readable way O’Neill discusses sources, history, and key themes of the Catholic social teaching tradition, as well as its implications for such issues as the ethics of war and peace, forced migration, and social reconciliation. Each chapter concludes with reflection questions, making it particularly helpful for classes and reading groups.
William O’Neill, SJ, is professor emeritus of social ethics at the Jesuit School of Theology of Santa Clara University. He is currently working with the Jesuit Refugee Service in Nairobi, Kenya.
