The Problem of Argumentation in Moral Theology – the Essence and the Need of Modernization

Abstract

The exposition of moral theology devoid of adequate arguments for the presented theses will always be too superficial, cursory and not profound enough. This is why the task for theologians-moralists is to look for such ways of detailed arguments that would be adequate for the existing social and religious-moral situation. The traditional way of argumentation „from authority” today should be considered definitely insufficient, which, however, does not mean questioning its validity in general. Similarly, the strictly theological argument may not be rejected. However, faith and love should be treated in this argumentation not only as single duties, but as uniform principles integrating the whole morality. Justification of the theological type, because of the modern moral-social situation and the character of culture, however, has to be complemented with personalistic and pragmatic aspects, which may be aided by the adequate use of data coming from the so-called science of man. The „new” argumentation should also to a greater degree take into consideration the new meaning of some concepts and the specificity of the addressee's circles.