Henry Ward Beecher, a nineteenth-century American Congregationalist pastor and journal editor, was a renowned public speaker active in campaigns against slavery and for social reform. He was an advocate of the theory of evolution and firmly believed that Christianity should adapt itself in the face of change. In Evolution and Religion (published in two volumes in 1885, two years before his death) he first discusses the implications of the 'new' evolutionary philosophy for various key Christian doctrines such as the divine nature, human sinfulness, the inspiration of the Bible, and divine providence, and then explores how evolutionism might affect the ethics and practice of Christianity. Beecher's charisma, enthusiasm and flamboyant oratory is evident even in print, and this book stands as a lasting testimony to this influential activist and thinker. It provides rich and enjoyable source material for historians of nineteenth-century science, religion and society.
- ISBN13 9781108000451
- Publish Date 24 September 2009
- Publish Status Active
- Publish Country GB
- Imprint Cambridge University Press
- Pages 449
- Language English