English Secularism: A Confession of Belief by George Jacob Holyoake

"English Secularism: A Confession of Belief" by George Jacob Holyoake is a philosophical and sociopolitical treatise written in the late 19th century. The book presents a defense of Secularism, positioning it as a distinct system of thought separate from both Theism and Atheism. Holyoake, a prominent figure in the Secularist movement, seeks to articulate a moral framework grounded in reason and empirical evidence, advocating for the separation of church and state influence in societal matters. The opening of the work sets the stage for Holyoake's exploration of Secularism, outlining its fundamental principles and the need for a clear distinction between secular instruction and religious ideology. He emphasizes the importance of free thought and independent reasoning, contrasting Secularism with the constraints imposed by religious dogmas. Holyoake introduces the notion that moral duty can and should be derived from human experience and rational inquiry, rather than theological doctrines, laying the groundwork for a comprehensive examination of ethics and morality through a secular lens. This introductory section engages with the challenges posed by existing beliefs while asserting the necessity of open dialogue and critical reflection on religious and secular thought alike. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

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About this eBook

Author Holyoake, George Jacob, 1817-1906
Title English Secularism: A Confession of Belief
Credits Produced by David Widger
Reading Level Reading ease score: 59.4 (10th to 12th grade). Somewhat difficult to read.
Language English
LoC Class BL: Philosophy, Psychology, Religion: Religion: General, Miscellaneous and Atheism
Subject Secularism
Category Text
eBook-No. 38104
Release Date
Last Update Jan 29, 2013
Copyright Public domain in the USA.
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