Christianity and Civilisation: Foundations & Specific Problems

by Emil Brunner

Despite the horrors of two world wars, Brunner saw hope for the building of a new civilisation on the ruins of what had been destroyed, arguing that only Christianity is able to provide the basis of a truly human civilisation. In setting out his thesis, Brunner first develops a Christian philosophy of civilisation dealing with basic principles, and then goes on to develop his ideas by offering a Christian interpretation of some of the main features of civilised life, from science and technology, through work, education and art, to wealth, social order and power. He criticises the fatally dazzling belief in progress as having led to the nothingness of despair. While the transcendent kingdom of God cannot be identified with a particular form of government or social structure, Brunner argues that the influence of Christianity on western civilisation has been more profound than any other influence. Brunner's analysis stands alongside the work of scholars such as Herbert Butterfield and Christopher Dawson as one of the leading studies of the influence of religion in the development of western civilisation. While their approach is primarily historically, Brunner's is that of the theologian, giving his work a unique perspective.

Genres: Theology, Cultural

326 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1948

About the author

Heinrich Emil Brunner was a Protestant theologian and Professor of Systematic and Practical Theology at the University of Zurich.

Reviews

[Steve · Rating 3 out of 5]

I only read the first volume, and there are many good solid insights set alongside some huge problems. The main problem is that Brunner holds to a twofold knowledge: that is to say, a "world knowledge" and a "knowledge of God", and this allows him to simultaneously hold to scripture as the revelation of God, and the truthfulness of modern scientific theories, e.g. the theory of evolution .