Theological Essays and Other Papers — Volume 1
by Thomas De Quincey (1785–1859)
- Free to read
- 6 hours to read
- 9 chapters
- Reading level: 10th to 12th grade
"Theological Essays and Other Papers — Volume 1" by Thomas De Quincey is a collection of philosophical and theological essays written during the mid-19th century. This work delves into the intricate relationships between Christianity, its implications for political movements, and comparisons with Pagan religions, exploring doctrinal, ethical, and societal themes within this framework. The opening of the volume begins with De Quincey's examination of Christianity as a subtle yet powerful force in political movements, asserting that its influence often goes unnoticed within societal structures. He discusses the complexity of earthly perceptions against the spiritual realities of Christianity, drawing a parallel between human understanding and complex natural phenomena. De Quincey suggests that Christianity’s depth allows for a convoluted interaction with political dynamics and societal norms, ultimately advocating for a deeper understanding of its principles and how they differ fundamentally from those of ancient Paganism. The beginning sets the tone for a profound exploration of theology's role in shaping human experience and societal constructs.
- English essays · 19th century
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Section II
OF THE ARGUMENT AS AFFECTED BY THE COVERT LIMITATIONS UNDER WHICH IT IS PRESENTED.
Such is the Argument: and, as the first step towards investigating its sanity and its degree—its kind of force, and its quantity of force, we must direct our attention to the following fact, viz., that amongst three separate conditions under which a miracle (or any event whatever) might become known to us, Hume's argument is applied only to one. Assuming a miracle to happen (for the possibility of a miracle is of course left open throughout the discussion, since any argument against that would at once foreclose every question about its communicability),—then it might happen under three several sets of circumstances, in relation to our consciousness. 1st, It might happen in the presence of a single witness—that witness not being ourselves. This case let us call Alpha. 2dly, It might happen in the presence of many witnesses,—witnesses to a vast amount, but still (as before) ourselves not being amongst that multitude. This case let us call Beta. And 3dly, It might happen in our own presence, and fall within the direct light of our own consciousness. This case let us call Gamma.
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This free edition of Theological Essays and Other Papers — Volume 1 by Thomas De Quincey comes from Project Gutenberg eBook #6123, released 2004-07-01. It is in the public domain in the United States, so you can read it here in full at no cost, on any phone, tablet or computer. Genre: Essays, Letters & Speeches, Philosophy & Ethics, Religion/Spirituality.
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