Justin M. Anderson, Ph.D., professor and chair of Moral Theology at Immaculate Conception Seminary School of Theology (ICSST) at Seton Hall University, spoke about his approach to ethics and education in a statement released on Mar. 10. Anderson described his work as a practical search for meaning that aims to improve the world, saying, “I’m involved in ethics and moral theology, so it’s a practical look at our lives, a search for meaning and ultimately an effort to better the world around us.”
Anderson has authored several recent books, including the forthcoming “Aquinas’s Summa and Jesuit Ethics: A Call for Ressourcement” (2026), “Thomas Aquinas and Medieval Canon Law” (2025), “Ignatius of Loyola and Thomas Aquinas: A Jesuit Ressourcement” (2024), and “The Roman School: Nineteenth-Century Jesuit Theology and Its Achievements” (2024). His scholarship focuses on how foundational Church thinkers can inform contemporary life through ressourcement, or returning to original sources.
At ICSST, Anderson said he values both research and teaching equally. “I love being in the classroom and I love doing research as well,” he said. He explained that these activities create synergy: “My teaching is better when I’m actively researching, and to be perfectly honest, we learn so much when we’re teaching.”
Anderson noted that many of his students have gone on to publish their own work. He emphasized the importance of engaging the whole person in education: “the formation of the whole person, not just information, but formation.” In his classroom, he believes every voice matters: “There is always someone here who has something to say to all of us,” adding that educators must remain “attentive to the wisdom that comes to us,” even from quieter students.
He also discussed how learning spaces like Walsh Library foster dialogue within the Seton Hall community by showcasing faculty books. For Anderson, moral theology should address real-world issues rather than remain confined to academic debate. “We can’t stay locked in a room,” he said. Catholic moral theology involves engaging with society as disciples of Jesus Christ.
Reflecting on technology’s role in education, Anderson acknowledged using artificial intelligence but cautioned it should be used thoughtfully: “But you have to be careful how you use it,” because it should remain “a tool that helps you, not something that replaces reflection.” He concluded by encouraging reflection within the Seton Hall community: Sometimes it is worth “stepping back and looking at what’s already been done.”
Those interested can hear more from Anderson on the Zet Forward Podcast hosted by Alan Delozier.
