The aim of this highly original book is twofold: to explain the reconciliation of religion and politics in the work of John Locke, and to explore the relevance of that reconciliation for politics in our own time. Confronted with deep social divisions over ultimate beliefs Locke sought to unite society in a single liberal community. Reason could identify divine moral laws that would be acceptable to members of all cultural groups, thereby justifying the authority of government. Greg Forster demonstrates that Locke's theory is liberal and rational but also moral and religious, providing an alternative to the two extremes of religious fanaticism and moral relativism. This fresh new account of Locke's thought will appeal to specialists and advanced students across philosophy, political science, and religious studies.
Review
"Greg Forster has written a very good and timely book on the political theory of John Locke. It is very good because it is well researched, clearly written, and provocative in its discussion and analysis...I wholeheartedly recommend Forster's very fine work for its valuable contributions to Lockean scholarship and for its thoughtful and challenging contributions to contemporary political theory." -Brett Wilmot, The Journal of Religion
Book Description
This book explains the reconciliation of religion and politics in the work of John Locke.
About the Author
Greg Forster is currently program director for American History, Economics and Religion at the Kern Family Foundation.
The aim of this highly original book is twofold: to explain the reconciliation of religion and politics in the work of John Locke, and to explore the relevance of that reconciliation for politics in our own time. Confronted with deep social divisions over ultimate beliefs Locke sought to unite society in a single liberal community. Reason could identify divine moral laws that would be acceptable to members of all cultural groups, thereby justifying the authority of government. Greg Forster demonstrates that Locke's theory is liberal and rational but also moral and religious, providing an alternative to the two extremes of religious fanaticism and moral relativism. This fresh new account of Locke's thought will appeal to specialists and advanced students across philosophy, political science, and religious studies.
Review
"Greg Forster has written a very good and timely book on the political theory of John Locke. It is very good because it is well researched, clearly written, and provocative in its discussion and analysis...I wholeheartedly recommend Forster's very fine work for its valuable contributions to Lockean scholarship and for its thoughtful and challenging contributions to contemporary political theory."
-Brett Wilmot, The Journal of Religion
Book Description
This book explains the reconciliation of religion and politics in the work of John Locke.
About the Author
Greg Forster is currently program director for American History, Economics and Religion at the Kern Family Foundation.