Culture and the Thomist Tradition
Book Description
In an era where faith meets the complexities of modern culture, how can ancient wisdom guide contemporary spiritual formation? Tracey Rowland tackles this pressing question by examining the intersection of Thomistic philosophy and cultural engagement within Catholic thought.
This scholarly exploration reveals a critical gap in traditional Thomism: its inability to provide clear guidance on culture's role in shaping moral and spiritual character. Rowland argues that this weakness became particularly evident following Vatican II, when many interpreted the Church's cultural mandate as a call to simply adopt modern secular forms and expressions.
Rather than embracing this modernizing trend, Rowland charts a different path forward. She draws together insights from prominent theological voices including Alasdair MacIntyre and the Radical Orthodoxy movement to construct what she terms a "post-modern Augustinian Thomism." This framework emphasizes how culture, memory, and narrative tradition fundamentally shape our intellectual and spiritual development.
The book offers a sobering analysis of contemporary mass culture, suggesting that its rejection of beauty creates barriers to hope and can ultimately lead toward despair. For readers seeking to understand how traditional spiritual wisdom can authentically engage with modern challenges without compromising its essential character, Rowland presents a thoughtful alternative to simple accommodation with secular culture.
This work will resonate with those interested in the deeper philosophical foundations of spiritual growth and the complex relationship between faith and cultural expression.
Who Is This For?
📖 Reading Level: Medium (200-400 pages) (~7 hours)
📄 Length: 244 pages
What You'll Discover
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- ✓ Explore Thomas, aquinas, saint, 1225?-1274
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