There is a fundamental discrepancy between man as he is and man as he could be, if only he recognized his true being and purpose. Ethics is the discipline by which man can understand how he can pass from the first condition to the second. Udo Schaefer's Baha'i Ethics in Light of Scripture is an attempt to analyse the underlying structures and detect the interior architecture of the Baha'i moral system and is a step towards developing a Baha'i moral theology. Doctrinal Fundamentals, the first of two volumes, provides a historical overview of the Baha'i Faith, a systematic survey of it doctrines and an overview of the origin and derivation of moral values. It considers the metaphysical nature of human beings and human responsibilities, looks at reason and conscience, and explores liberty and its limits. Schaefer's second volume deals with concrete values - the virtues, divine commandments and principles of social ethics from a Baha'i perspective.

Taking stock of the traditions of modern European thought, Schaefer discussessome of the vital issues affecting society today and proposes solutions drawnfrom the teachings of the Baha'i faith. (World Religions)