"those of us who regularly reach introductory courses in theological ethics know how difficult it can be to present the relevant theories and issues in an effective way.  So it is very high praise indeed when I say that Mattison has written a first-rate textbook for beginners in this challenging field.  Appropriating Aquinas's organizing principle of the virtues, he draws together the main stands of the Catholic Moral tradition in such a way as to reveal its inner logic, and to present this in a clear, accessible, and attractive way.  He wears his condierable learning lightly, and while he clearly aims to present traditional Catholic moral teachings, he does so in a way that invites thoughtful engagement and dialogue.  This would be suitable in a number of undergraduate and seminary contexts, and scholars in the field will find much of value here as well."