The Ecology of Moral Authority

A Response to James A. Nash, 'The Bible vs. Biodiversity: The Case against Moral Argument from Scripture'

Abstract

In response to the article by James Nash, I argue that Nash’s concern for the protection of biodiversity provides the occasion for his critique of biblical usage in support of moral judgments. I then discuss Bible usage and ethical method by comparing Nash’s analysis with the social statement on the environment produced by the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. The comparison, rather than offering contrasts, serves to illustrate the wisdom of Nash’s understanding of how the Bible may be appropriately used in dialogue with reason and experience to guide moral judgments. Particularly noteworthy is a shared spirit of humility in making moral claims.