The Chair
Moral theology sees itself as an integrated science. It integrates biblical and systematic theology as well as knowledge from the natural sciences, the moral sciences, and the social sciences. Its goal is to formulate normative statements about human action and to give rational reasons for these statements. In this process, one of the key elements of general moral theology is the discussion on the formation and substantiation of moral and legal norms. Apart from the discussion of fundamental values, the question of the meaning of human existence is raised as well. In order for moral orientation to make sense, it must always include the discussion of the human self-image. If Christian faith wants to show that God is still demanding certain things from us humans today, we have to account for the conditions of the “Lebenswelt” we are talking about as well. While faith certainly cannot be rationalized, it still must prove reasonable and thus be communicable. Likewise, statements of Christian ethics must always be examined and explained thoroughly. Therefore, the subject of moral theology wants to reflect on the conditions of moral action against the background of historical change and ask questions about the importance that faith has for practical rationality.
Specific moral theology addresses concrete questions of the moral-theological groundwork.
Currently, our group focuses on questions of biomedical ethics.