Physico-theology

Religion and Science in Europe, 1650–1750

Ann Blair editor Kaspar von Greyerz editor

Format:Hardback

Publisher:Johns Hopkins University Press

Published:15th Oct '20

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Physico-theology cover

This first book-length study of physico-theology questions the widespread notion of a steadily advancing early modern separation of religion and science.

Beginning around 1650, the emergence of a number of new scientific concepts, methods, and instruments challenged existing syntheses of science and religion. Physico-theology, which embraced the values of personal, empirical observation, was an international movement of the early Enlightenment that focused on the new science to make arguments about divine creation and providence. By reconciling the new science with Christianity across many denominations, physico-theology played a crucial role in diffusing new scientific ideas, assumptions, and interest in the study of nature to a broad public. In this book, sixteen leading scholars contribute a rich array of essays on the terms and scope of the movement, its scientific and religious arguments, and its aesthetic sensibilities.

Contributors: Ann Blair, Simona Boscani Leoni, John Hedley Brooke, Nicolas Brucker, Katherine Calloway, Kathleen Crowther, Brendan Dooley, Peter Harrison, Barbara Hunfeld, Eric Jorink, Scott Mandelbrote, Brian W. Ogilvie, Martine Pécharman, Jonathan Sheehan, Anne-Charlott Trepp, Rienk Vermij, Kaspar von Greyerz

The essays provide good examples of the role that physico-theology played in the development of the sciences with which it was in conversation.
—Thokozani Kamwendo, University of Durham, H-Net Reviews
This volume presents the subject with excellent variety, yet editorially holds together well, serving as an introduction to the intellectual phenomenon of physico-theology.
—Jason M. Rampelt, University of Cambridge, Perspectives in Science and Christian Faith
Physico-theology: Religion and Science in Europe, 1650-1750 , therefore, is a helpful and horizon-widening collection, which successfully adds something to an already rich, abundant, well-studied period in the history of science and religion.
—Nick Spencer, Science and Christian Belief

ISBN: 9781421438467

Dimensions: 229mm x 152mm x 23mm

Weight: 499g

286 pages