The Science of Virtue: Why Positive Psychology Matters to the Church

The church and science have drifted apart over the past century. Today the church is often deemed irrelevant by those who trust science, and science is often deemed irrelevant by those whose primary loyalties are to the church. However, this book shows that the new science of virtue--the field of positive psychology--can serve as a bridge point between science and the church and can help renew meaningful conversation.

In essence, positive psychology examines how ordinary people can become happier and more fulfilled. Mark McMinn clarifies how positive psychology can complement Christian faith and promote happiness and personal flourishing. In addition, he shows how the church can help strengthen positive psychology. McMinn brings the church's experience and wisdom on six virtues--humility, forgiveness, gratitude, grace, hope, and wisdom--into conversation with intriguing scientific findings from positive psychology. Each chapter includes a section addressing Christian counselors who seek to promote happiness and fulfillment in others.

• Finding Truth: 5 Principles for Unmasking Atheism, Secularism, and Other God Substitutes
• Integrative Approaches to Psychology and Christianity, 3rd edition: An Introduction to Worldview Issues, Philosophical Foundations, and Models of Integraiton
• Modern Psychotherapies: A Comprehensive Christian Appraisal (Christian Association for Psychological Studies Partnership)
• Theories of Counseling and Psychotherapy: An Integrative Approach
• Liturgy of the Ordinary: Sacred Practices in Everyday Life
• Psychology in the Spirit: Contours of a Transformational Psychology (Christian Worldview Integration Series)
• Flourish: A Visionary New Understanding of Happiness and Well-being
• Embodied Hope: A Theological Meditation on Pain and Suffering
• Anatomy of the Soul: Surprising Connections between Neuroscience and Spiritual Practices That Can Transform Your Life and Relationships
• Theories of Development: Concepts and Applications