Climate change is an issue of such concern that Pope Francis in 2015 published “Laudato Si’,” an environmental encyclical calling for protection of Earth and its environment, while also improving the plight of the poor. A new book analyzes the encyclical and asks whether and how religion can take a leadership role in addressing environmental crises. “Laudato Si’ and the Environment” was edited by Robert McKim, a University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign professor emeritus of religion. McKim specializes in the philosophy of religion and applied ethics. The book features essays from scholars of different disciplines and cultural and religious perspectives, each responding to the encyclical and its implications for environmental issues. “The religions exercise considerable influence in the lives of many people. They do not hesitate to try to provide guidance in many other areas of life. Why not in the case of this contemporary crisis?” McKim wrote. To view the full article visit Illinois News.
