The Theory and Practice of Virtue

"[This] is a study in which Christian moral tradition, classical philosophical insights, and contemporary intellectual concerns are blended into a coherent whole. . . . In my judgment the best single chapter in the book is the first: 'Thinking about virtue.' For persons unfamiliar with the virtue perspective on ethics this is a lucid and persuasive exploration of the role of virtue in conceiving what morality is all about. It would be particularly useful in a beginning class on religious ethics." —Journal of Religious Ethics

"The Theory and Practice of Virtue is a collection of interrelated essays on aspects of the theme of virtue: some on the topic in general, some on its relevance to education, one each on a specific vice (curiosity) and virtue (gratitude). Of these the discussions of the strengths of Joseph Pieper and of the weaknesses of Lawrence Kohlberg are among the best, but the essay on Martin Luther stands out and has the greatest theological interest. . . . [This book] will serve well in courses introducing its topic." —Horizons

"...cleanly written, sensibly argued and firmly traditional essays. Meilaender looks for guidance to thinkers like Plato, Thomas Aquinas, Martin Luther and Josef Pieper. He is a lively expositor of the ancient (and modern) belief that morals are a rational human endeavor ultimtely founded on revelation and grace." —The Christian Century