Thought of Pope Benedict XVI: An Introduction to the Theology of Joseph Ratzinger [Paperback]

Aidan Nichols OP (Author)

Book Description

ISBN-10: 0860124215 | ISBN-13: 978-0860124214 | Publication Date: September 26, 2007

Aidan Nichols' timely book is the first full-scale investigation of Joseph Ratzinger's theology, from the 1950s to the present day. It presents a chronological account of the development of Ratzinger's writing that reflects a wide range of historical and theoretical interests. A comprehensive introduction to a figure who is in his own right, quite apart from his significance in the politics of the Church, a major German Catholic theologian of the twentieth century.

This new edition amplifies existing chapters by reference to books by Ratzinger between 1986/1987 and his election as Pope in 2005, and includes two new chapters - Judaism, Islam and other religions, and the secularization and future of Europe.

Editorial Reviews

Review

'A beautiful presentation of the theological achievement of Joseph Ratzinger combines a confident grasp of the general trends of Ratzinger's thinking with almost a poet's feel for particularities of place and with a trained historian's sense of the period.' Chesterton Review

'An important introduction, not only to the mind and heart of one man, but to the intellectual ferment of his times.' Expository Times

'Nichols begins his book with an excellent chapter on the historical background of Ratzinger, tracing the history of Bavaria from its beginnings and giving much interesting material about the Church in Germany in the time of Hitler.' Priests and People

'Those who want to get closer to this thinker should consult [The Thought of Pope Benedict XVI]. This, the first study of its kind in English, is a meticulously researched, lucid account of Ratzinger's thought.' Economist

'A highly lucid presentation of Ratzinger's theology, which reveals a complete mastery of his writings as well as the secondary literature.' Heythrop Journal

'So good an introduction is this book that I am eager to read more of Ratzinger, for he has a lot to say; not least, in criticism of my own position.' Reformed Theological Review

'Anyone who wants to understand where Ratzinger is coming from should read it carefully.' National Catholic Register

'Benedict has remained remarkably consistent in his theology, even if the issues facing the Church have shifted in recent years.' The Thought of Benedict XVI

"A timely book, considering his election as Pope, The Thought of Pope Benedict XVI is the first full-scale investigation of Ratzinger's theology in its development from the 1950s to the present day. the book, enhanced by updates, will help Catholics get to know the leader of their faith." -SirReadaLot.org

Title mentioned following article by author in Catholic Herald, 2008.

About the Author

Aidan Nichols entered the Dominican Order in 1970, and has since worked in Edinburgh, Oslo, Rome and Cambridge, where he now lives. His other publications include The Art of God Incarnate and The Shape of Catholic Theology, among others.

Product Details

• Paperback: 304 pages
• Publisher: Burns & Oates (September 26, 2007)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0860124215
• ISBN-13: 978-0860124214
• Product Dimensions: 9.1 x 6.1 x 0.9 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.1 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (1 customer review)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #623,138 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Most Helpful Customer Reviews

42 of 43 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Praise for Aidan Nichols, July 1, 2005

By 

Ryan P. Hilderbrand (Chicago, IL) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Thought of Pope Benedict XVI: An Introduction to the Theology of Joseph Ratzinger (Paperback)

Nichols has written yet another fine work, this time on the theological thought of Joseph Ratzinger, now Pope Benedict XVI. Written in the late 1980s, Nichols does not go into much of Ratzinger's work as head of the CDF, a Roman congregation whose purpose it is to defend and clarify the Faith. However, he does go thoroughly into Ratzinger's pre-conciliar work, his work at the Second Vatican Council, and his work in Germany afterwards. An absolutely wonderful book; it gives the reader less of a biography of Ratzinger and more an overview of those things which have influenced the way he thinks. A must-read.