The History of English Rationalism in the Nineteenth Century" by Alfred William

The book "The History of English Rationalism in the Nineteenth Century" by Alfred William Benn, published in 1906, delves into the...

The book "The History of English Rationalism in the Nineteenth Century" by Alfred William Benn, published in 1906, delves into the concept of rationalism and its evolution in England during the 19th century. 

The history of English rationalism in the nineteenth century

The author begins by distinguishing rationalism from rationality, highlighting that it is not just about theoretical reasoning but also encompasses religious beliefs and can sometimes be seen as destructive.

Benn addresses objections to rationalism and argues against unjust prejudice towards negative criticism. He explores the religious reactions and their underlying causes, pointing out the insufficiency of the historic method in understanding rationalism. The author emphasizes that explaining a belief does not necessarily refute it and distinguishes rationalism from materialism, freethought, skepticism, and agnosticism.

The book delves into the conflict between faith and reason, discussing the role of authority as a method of faith and its origins and justifications. Benn critiques the confusion between trust, obedience, and true belief, and explores the relationship between will and belief. He argues that logic serves as the ethics of belief and examines the conflict of authorities, drawing examples from Plato and the career of Lamennais.

Transitioning to mysticism, Benn discusses the mystical protest against authority and the doctrine of the All-One. He explores mystical interpretations of experience and the disagreement among mystics, highlighting the disappearance of truth in the All-One. 

The author also delves into skepticism as a method of faith, discussing the works of Butler and Mansel and the concept of ophelism, which involves appealing to results.

Benn further explores intellectual ophelism, biblical and papal infallibility, and practical postulates. He argues that morality is independent of religion and may be logically inconsistent with a transcendental theology. The book also discusses the association of morality and religion in practice and the relation of ethical ophelism to authority.

The author delves into emotional ophelism and contradictory valuations of religious belief, as well as aesthetic ophelism. He highlights mystical hostility towards decorative language and emphasizes the importance of keeping the language English. Overall, "The History of English Rationalism in the Nineteenth Century" provides a comprehensive analysis of rationalism, faith, authority, and mysticism during this period, offering valuable insights into the intellectual and religious landscape of 19th-century England.

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