The Role of Theology in Contemporary Environmental Ethics and Sustainable Development

1. Introduction 1.1 Background and Context 1.2 Research Purpose and Objectives 1.3 Outline of the Study 2. Historical Development of Theology 2.1 Early Theological Concepts 2.2 Evolution Through the Middle Ages 2.3 Modern Theological Perspectives 3. Understanding Environmental Ethics 3.1 Definition and Scope 3.2 Key Philosophical Underpinnings 3.3 Relationship with Theology 4. Sustainable Development 4.1 Origins and Definitions 4.2 Core Principles and Goals 4.3 Challenges to Achieving Sustainability 5. The Intersection of Theology and Environmental Ethics 5.1 Theological Contributions to Ethics 5.2 Ethical Dimensions in Religious Teachings 5.3 Case Studies of Religious Influence 6. Theological Perspectives on Sustainable Development 6.1 Religious Texts and Sustainability 6.2 Faith-Based Organizations' Role 6.3 Theological Advocacy for Policy Change 7. Critiques and Challenges 7.1 Secular Criticisms of Theological Involvement 7.2 Internal Theological Debates 7.3 Bridging Science and Theology 8. Conclusion 8.1 Summary of Key Findings 8.2 Implications for Future Research 8.3 Final Thoughts on Theology's Role