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What
people are saying about Sacred Choices
"Dan
Maguire has changed the debate over reproductive rights forever
by conclusively demonstrating that there is a theological
basis for the pro-choice position in ten world religions.
-Rev. Stephen J. Mather, Member, Board of Directors
Planned Parenthood Federation of America
"Sacred Choices is the right choice for anyone who wants
to explode the poisonous myth that the world's religions oppose
a woman's right to reproductive freedom. . . . A breakthrough
volume that is easily accessible and a delight to read."
-Rabbi Balfour Brickner, Senior Rabbi, Emeritus
Stephen Wise Free Synagogue, New York, N.Y.
"What Dr. Maguire, with his scholarly guides, does so
brilliantly is make the data accessible, lift the shroud of
stereotype, and let the reader decide for her/himself."
-Mary E. Hunt, Women's Alliance for Theology, Ethics and
Ritual
"With all the shouting in the angry debate about abortion,
you would think we possessed God's full understanding about
our creation. Clearly, we need a new conversation, and Professor
Maguire could move us toward a more civilized, more Christian,
discussion."
-John P. Blessington, American Catholic
"...
Dan McGuire, drawing on a lifetime of study and research,
in conjunction with scholars from other religions, finds that
Christianity and other faith traditions have many strands
of thought expressed over the centuries...The book will be
welcomed by all who want more open discussion ..."
Rev. Stephen J. Mather, Anaheim, CA USA
"This
small book packs a lot of wisdom into its 160 pages. It is
beautifully written, with personal insights and moving anecdotes.
Nor is this professor of ethics at Marquette University afraid
to take on the Vatican or other powerful religious bureaucracies
to get at the root of religious belief. As the world struggles
with issues of over-population, hunger, poverty and HIV/AIDS,
'Sacred Choices' is a call to wake up from the dream of that
"old time religion" and to appreciate our even older
religious traditions. This book comes at a teachable moment,
a time of grace."
Edward J. Mitchell, former Executive Director, UNICEF New
England.
"Maguire
does not argue that religion is inherently supportive of family
planning - unlike his more conservative colleagues, he does
not try and make a case for any religion containing just a
single valid tradition on such matters. Instead, his more
fundamental argument is that religion is not monolithic. Religion
is, rather, a collection of perspectives and traditions, making
some people's claim to holding the keys to the "true
faith" of that religion perplexing at best. Those representing
the anti-choice traditions in their respective religions have
been very vocal in expressing their opinions, so it is good
that Maguire is giving time to those with an alternative viewpoint...
Change will have to come, however, even if it is delayed.
As more people begin to understand that they can support family
planning and choice without also rejecting the religion to
which they belong, it will become easier for them to make
more informed decisions. People need to understand that they
can be a good Catholic or a good Muslim and still support
the existence of family planning, contraception, and even
legal abortion...Maguire's book was written with such readers
in mind..."
Austin Reed Cline, A\A