Books by Mark D. (Emory University) Jordan

Explores the invention of sodomy in medieval Christendom, examining its conceptual foundations in theology and gauging its impact on Christian sexual ethics both then and now. The text traces the genealogy of this cultural construct through many of the idiosyncratic worldviews of the Middle Ages.

Jordan also argues that no matter what the courts do, Christian churches will have to decide for themselves whether to bless same-sex unions. No civil compromise can settle the religious questions surrounding gay marriage.

This analysis of the relationship between male homosexuality and Catholicism examines the Church's language about sexual morality and the rhetorical devices used to actively produce silence about the topic. The author draws analogies between clerical institutions and gay culture.

Mark Jordan has written a provocative and stimulating introduction to the issues surrounding sexual ethics and sexuality and theology, filling a much--needed void in this field. Jordan summarizes key topics and themes in the teaching and discussion of religious ethics as well as pushing forward the debate in interesting and original directions.

Responding to the recent upsurge of interest in Thomas Aquinas, this book goes straight to the heart of the contemporary debates about Thomism. * Focuses on the concept of authority, both in terms of Aquinas's own attitude to authority, and how the Church authorities have used Aquinas's texts.