The Cambridge Platonists: Being Selections From the Writings of Benjamin Whichcote, John Smith and Nathanael Culverwel With Introduction (Classic Reprint) - Softcover

E. T. Campagnac

 
9781330242100: The Cambridge Platonists: Being Selections From the Writings of Benjamin Whichcote, John Smith and Nathanael Culverwel With Introduction (Classic Reprint)

Synopsis

This book delves into the lives and philosophies of three 17th-century Cambridge scholars – Benjamin Whichcote, John Smith, and Nathanael Culverwel – who formed the core of the Cambridge Platonist movement. Rooted in the turbulent times of the English Civil War, these thinkers sought a middle ground between the rigid dogmatism of the Puritans and the ceremonial formality of the Church of England. Their writings explored the intricate relationship between reason and faith, advocating for a rational and ethical approach to Christianity that emphasized individual conscience and the pursuit of a virtuous life. The author skillfully weaves biographical details with insightful analysis of their key works, revealing their intellectual debts to figures like Plato and Plotinus while highlighting their unique contributions to religious and philosophical thought. This book offers a captivating journey into a pivotal period in intellectual history, shedding light on ideas that continue to resonate in contemporary discussions about faith, reason, and the human search for meaning. By exploring the legacy of the Cambridge Platonists, readers gain a deeper appreciation for the enduring power of reason and morality in navigating the complexities of religious belief and practice.

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