Niebuhr and His Age: Reinhold Niebuhr's Prophetic Role in the Twentieth Century

This extensively researched account - primarily an intellectual biography - of America's renowned theologian and social philosopher is being published to coincide with the centenary of his birth. The book represents a welcome addition to the existing literature on Niebuhr, filling many gaps in earlier efforts and correcting some misunderstandings of the man and his thought.
Although the book relates in some detail the thread of his life, it is not overly concerned with personal intimacies. Rather, it aspires to an understanding of Niebuhr's development and role as a theologian, social philosopher, and political journalist, while also giving attention to his less known contributions as cultural critic, ecumenical churchman, and seminary professor. A concluding chapter appraises his legacy and its significance for the American public and its religious communities in the years ahead. A series of previously unpublished photographs adds to the appeal of this important volume.
Apart from its biographical focus, Niebuhr and His Age richly illuminates crucial decades of recent history, and is an excellent introduction to modern Christian thought and its expression in Niebuhr's Christian realism.