Legal Studies of the Church: History and Theory: History and Theory

Author: Peng Xiaoyu
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2003-11-01
Features: This book is a scholarly monograph that systematically and deeply studies the legal system of the Roman Catholic Church. Based on a thorough grasp of original documents and international research trends, it employs research methods from history, theology, law, and religious sociology to trace the historical and theoretical threads and connections of canon law, exploring its origins and development. The book examines the nature and characteristics of canon law, the treatment of heretics and pagans by ecclesiastical courts, the Church's views on war and international law, the papal system and church diplomacy, as well as the challenges faced by modern society and the responses of the Pope and the Church. Through the analysis of numerous case studies, the depth of the research is enhanced. The author offers unique insights on issues such as the Inquisition, the relationship between canon law and Western modern constitutionalism and capitalist commodity economy, which help correct some erroneous views in domestic academia about the so-called "Dark Ages." The book consists of eight chapters. Although its focus is on the medieval period, it extends the discussion to post-medieval canon law theory and regulations to facilitate an understanding of the current Catholic Church. Thus, while primarily historical in scope, it carries significant contemporary relevance.