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A Theology of Health

Wholeness and Human Flourishing

Tyler J VanderWeele author

Format:Hardback

Publisher:University of Notre Dame Press

Published:15th Sep '24

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A Theology of Health cover

While the health of the body can be defined by its functioning parts and systems, the health of the person is more complex. To flourish, we need to understand health in the context of God’s intent.

A Theology of Health presents a Christian understanding of the very concept of health, both the health of the body and the health of the person. Preeminent scholar Tyler J. VanderWeele argues that health can be understood as wholeness as intended by God and that sin—whether individual wrongdoing, societal injustice, or the fallenness of creation—causes ill health. VanderWeele explains that restoration and fulfillment of health is salvation, pointed toward in the life of Jesus Christ, to be lived out through the work of the Church, and for which we await final completion. VanderWeele also demonstrates the broader relevance and implications of his insights to all who seek to understand health, well-being, and the ultimate ends of human life.

A Theology of Health is an essential theological exploration that seeks to promote health, healing, and flourishing of the whole person.

“This book does a great service to the fields of human health and theology by bringing the richness of both disciplines into deeper contact with the other. Tyler J. VanderWeele’s comprehensive work expands our thinking in both disciplines and invites us all to consider new partners in the quest for human flourishing.” —Michael Rozier, SJ, Saint Louis University


“This remarkable book by a world-class research scientist will change your life forever by providing a deeper understanding of how faith and the application of moral values can impact health and flourishing in ways you may not have realized before. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to grow both your mind and your spirit.” —Harold G. Koenig, author of Religion and Mental Health


“The originality of this book lies in the union of philosophical and theological meanings of health in a comprehensive and empirically grounded account of human flourishing. The writing is clear and often elegant; the argument is persuasive, nuanced, and highly sophisticated.” —Dominic F. Doyle, author of The Promise of Christian Humanism

ISBN: 9780268208332

Dimensions: 229mm x 152mm x 25mm

Weight: unknown

392 pages