This book blends historical, theological, and philosophical inquiries into what "modernity" means with the aim of showing how Newman can analyze, critique, and explain fruitful ways forward within a diverse range of subjects. First, it surveys historical and theological topics such as how Newman understood "modernity," the sensus fidelium, the role of doubt and modern views of reason; Newman's university ideal; and a return to the saint for much-needed anthropological insights. Second, the volume shows how Newman's thought can be insightfully applied to key issues within church and society: the need to redefine "American" Catholicism, the challenge of secularization, the role of Christian joy, revelation and religious diversity, progress traps and the ecological crisis, and overcoming post-modern individualism. Throughout each chapter, contributors consistently bring Newman's original and penetrating thought to bear upon critical themes in theological anthropology, ecclesiology, comparative theology, and spirituality. The volume shows how Newman's thought can be extended and enriched by dialogue with contemporary thinkers such as Charles Taylor, Pope Francis, and Bruno Latour. In brief, the contributors demonstrate how Newman can help frame contemporary self-understandings and various theological and social imaginaries in the light of faith.

About the Author
Brian W. Hughes is professor of theology in the Theology and Pastoral Ministry Program at the University of Saint Mary. Danielle Nussberger is associate professor of systematic theology and director of undergraduate studies at Marquette University.

Reviews
At a time when theologians are grappling with the implosion of modernity, as witnessed in global culture, politics, and in the life of the church, the nineteenth-century religious genius, John Henry Newman, has again become pertinent. This refreshing collection of essays, written by a new generation of Newman scholars, goes far beyond standard Newman studies. Each essay brings Newman into a wide range of theological and even inter-religious conversations with interlocutors he would never have imagined engaging-from the Buddha to Hans Urs von Balthasar, and Charles Taylor to Pope Francis. As yet undiscovered dimensions of Newman's thought come to light in the process. This book is a must-read for anyone seriously concerned about life after the demise of modernity, and serious theological engagement with the challenges we face. -- Paul G. Crowley, SJ, Jesuit Community Professor, Santa Clara University
The authors of this collection have pointed the way forward for Newman studies, and for the future that Newman's thought deserves. It was characteristic of Newman that he could engage with history and tradition and apply the lessons they had to teach to his own day. The contributors to this volume have done much the same for Newman himself, by engaging with him in a critical and constructive dialogue. In doing so they have given him a voice in contemporary discussions, and allowed him to throw light on a whole range of themes, including, among others, secularization, religious epistemology, ecclesiology, and the nature of Christian joy. This is more than a book about Newman. It is a conversation with Newman. -- Terrence Merrigan, Faculty of Theology and Religious Studies, KU Leuven, Belgium



Book Information
ISBN 9781978702103
Author Brian W. Hughes
Format Hardback
Page Count 220
Imprint Lexington Books/Fortress Academic
Publisher Rowman & Littlefield
Weight(grams) 503g
Dimensions(mm) 231mm * 159mm * 22mm