Christian Ethics and Political, Pastoral, and Practical Theology

The intersecting disciplines of Christian Ethics and Political, Pastoral, and Practical Theology engage critically and constructively with theological and religious accounts of human flourishing, examining the forms of conduct, culture, and institutional life that either nurture or hinder it. Central to the focus of these disciplines is asking questions about the meaning and purpose of human life as well as the character of relations needed to fulfil these meanings and purposes. Within these fields, theology’s practical significance comes sharply into view—whether in relation to sexuality, medicine, technology, politics, economics, or the environment.
Oxford stands as a global leader in the study of moral and political theology, particularly where these converge with pastoral and practical theology, and with questions of worship, spirituality, and lived experience. It hosts a vibrant academic community of faculty, postgraduates, and undergraduates, many of whom are actively engaged with local congregations, political movements, and social initiatives.
Teaching and research are interdisciplinary and shaped by dialogue with a wide range of moral and religious traditions. Alongside doctoral work, Oxford offers several master’s programmes that support advanced study and professional formation. Intellectual exchange across disciplines and faiths, and the integration of theological inquiry with public life, are further enriched by the work of the McDonald Centre for Theology, Ethics, and Public Life, and the Healthcare Values Partnership.

Research Centres & Projects

The McDonald Centre for Ethics and Public Life

The McDonald Centre fosters conversation both between Christian theology and other disciplines, and between academia and those who shape public deliberation and policy. Based at the Faculty of Theology & Religion in the University of Oxford, the Centre is generously supported by the McDonald Agape Foundation.

The Healthcare Values Partnership

The Healthcare Values Partnership is led by Professor Joshua Hordern who collaborates with a range of colleagues in Oxford and elsewhere. Exploring the values which shape healthcare today, the ethos of the partnership is to develop working relationships between patients, researchers, healthcare practitioners, managers and policy makers. The partnership benefits from the support of the British Academy, the Sir Halley Stewart Trust, the Wellcome Trust, the Arts and Humanities Research Council, and the Higher Education Innovation Fund.

Community

Postgraduate students and faculty in Christian Ethics and aligned fields form a collegial and convivial group where scholarship is interwoven with conversation and friendship. Each year begins with a walk through the countryside and ends with a garden party. During term-time, research seminars bring all members of the intellectual community together fortnightly. Events at the MacDonald Centre for Theology, Ethics, & Public Life are open to anyone interested in the field. In addition, there are ad hoc reading groups, afternoon excursions, workshops, and trips to the pub!