Approaching the End: A Theological Exploration of Death and Dying (Oxford Studies in Theological Ethics) [Hardcover]

David Albert Jones (Author)

Book Description

ISBN-10: 0199287155 | ISBN-13: 978-0199287154 | Publication Date: October 11, 2007

David Albert Jones considers two basic questions: how can we live well in the face of death? and when, if ever, is it legitimate deliberately to bring human life to an end? He focuses upon the distinct theological approaches to death shown by four outstanding Christian thinkers: Ambrose of Milan, Augustine of Hippo, Thomas Aquinas, and Karl Rahner. Jones's aim is not primarily to make a contribution to the history of theology, but rather, through engagement with the thought of theologians of the past, to reflect on some of the practical and existential issues that the approach of death presents for all of us.

Editorial Reviews

Review

This is a fascinating treatment of four foundation thinkers in the Christian tradition, important not only for Roman Catholics but for all Christians and those who live among them. Jones' writing is a model of clarity and readability, and his critical interaction with the four thinkers is skillful. Jones ably demonstrates the relevance of theology to contemporary issues and of the past to the present. David B. Fletcher, Themelios The usefulness of this book lies in Jones' careful and lucid exposition and critique of the writings of four seminal figures in Catholic theology on death and related questions... For this reason, this book marks an important contribution to scholarship in the field of Christian biothics. M Therese Lysaught, Modern Theology.

About the Author

David Albert Jones is Academic Director, St Mary's College Twickenham.

Product Details

• Hardcover: 256 pages
• Publisher: Oxford University Press, USA (October 11, 2007)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0199287155
• ISBN-13: 978-0199287154
• Product Dimensions: 8.6 x 5.8 x 0.9 inches
• Shipping Weight: 15.5 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (1 customer review)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #3,085,466 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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5.0 out of 5 stars Thanatology, April 2, 2011

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Carmen Scuderi "Fr. Carmen Scuderi, O.F.M." (Hazleton, Pennsylvania) - See all my reviews
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This review is from: Approaching the End: A Theological Exploration of Death and Dying (Oxford Studies in Theological Ethics) (Hardcover)

Oxford Studies has presented an excellent text in the field of Thantology. Anyone working in the Hospice Communities will benefit greatly in reading this work. Sensitive, insightful and filled with hope, this text offers an insight into the dying process that offers a peace-filled and hope-filled perspective to the transitional phase of life. An excellent text for the minister a must have for the Thanatologist and a good read for anyone with an educated background who has lost or is losing a loved one and seeks guidance.