For two millennia Christianity has embraced fairly consistent views of human sexuality. Today, there exist more varied outlooks on the subject. This volume on Christianity in the The Library of Essays on Sexuality and Religion series overviews the contrasting Christian perceptions of sexuality. Part 1 includes a number of previously published articles that are theological in nature and present biblical interpretations of sexuality. Here, several Christian voices are permitted to speak from their varied perspectives, both conservative and liberal. Part 2 features contributions focusing on the Christian tradition of celibacy and asceticism. Part 3 surveys scholarly work emphasising the relationship between sexuality, gender and patriarchy. Part 4 offers academic interpretations of Christian expressions of sexuality through the mediums of worship, ritual and the sacraments. The final part peruses contemporary contestations of conventional Christian views. This is undertaken by presenting articles examining views of gay sexuality, assisted human reproduction and priestly celibacy.
Biography
Stephen Hunt is Reader in Sociology at the University of the West of England, UK
'... the present volume will bring the scholarly study of sexuality and religion to a wider readership.' Modern Believing '...an excellent overview of issues that frame contemporary debates as well as some of the best new thinking that expands and enriches ecclesial discussions.' Religious Studies Review ’What this volume does so brilliantly is collect together 25 articles and chapters published elsewhere to give an astonishingly broad view of academic thinking in this area.’ Churchman ’...a great assortment of articles for any reader who wishes to be introduced to a wide selection of Christian perspectives on contentious issues dealing with human sexuality.’ Sexuality & Culture
