MORALS AND THE NEW THEOLOGY

The author of this controversial little book is the professor of philosophy at the University College of North Wales. In it he takes issue vigorously with the dominant trend in Protestant theology of which Barth, Brunner and Niebuhr are the outstanding exponents. Professor Lewis maintains that this ""new theology"" runs directly counter to the elementary ethical principles which we encounter from day to day. He is especially sharp in his criticism of the currently prevalent emphasis upon ""original sin"" which he contends undermines the sense of individual responsibility essential to morality and ethics. This return to old dogmatises the author feels to be particularly distressing in view of the tragic need of a deeper permeation of all of life by religion. While the author expresses the hope that his book may be of help to laymen, it is probable that it will be mostly those at home in the fields of philosophy, ethics and religion who will wish to read it. But their interest will be great, on whichever side of the controversy they stand.