Called by Karl Barth "the brilliant Ethics of Dietrich Bonhoeffer," this book is finally being recognized as Bonhoeffer's magnum opus and one of the most important works of Christian ethics of the last century. Presented here in a new translation and a striking new arrangement, it is based on intensive study of the original manuscripts. Bonhoeffer's Ethics is copiously annotated with historical notes and editorial commentary that reveal the theological basis of his radical critique of Nazi policies and practices.Written in the midst of the conspiracy to overthrow the Hitler regime, it discloses to the careful reader the theological-ethical basis of Bonhoeffer's participation in the attempted coup and his approval of tyrannicide in that extreme situation. But it is chiefly concerned with ethics for the postwar time of reconstruction and peace. Focused on Christ, the God who became human, and the vision of a world reconciled with God, Bonhoeffer's Ethics shuns abstraction, seeking the will of God in concrete historical reality. It challenges the church to be a transforming community in the world and calls Christians to a new responsibility in public life.
