European Physico-theology (1650-c.1760) in Context: Celebrating Nature and Creation

Physico-theology played a crucial role in establishing the new science in western and central Europe in the mid-seventeenth century by celebrating nature as a way to recognize God as Creator and demonstrate the compatibility of the biblical record with the new science. This insight has not received much attention in the history of early modern science, but this monograph focuses on two genres: the argument from design and the palaeontological argument regarding the role of the Deluge in the formation of fossils. It also highlights the predominantly Protestant nature of the phenomenon and looks at the longevity of the argument from design in Britain and the Netherlands.

Format: Hardback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 05 May 2022
Publisher: Oxford University Press

Physico-theology, a captivating and often overlooked facet of the intellectual and socio-cultural landscape of the mid-seventeenth century, celebrated the observation of nature as a means to recognize God as the Creator and to demonstrate the compatibility of the biblical record with the emerging science. This profound and multifaceted endeavor played a crucial role in establishing the new science in western and central Europe, although its significance has often been underestimated.

In the realm of science, the importance of physico-theology in fostering widespread acceptance among a broad educated public cannot be overstated. Regrettably, this valuable insight has received limited attention in the history of early modern science, primarily due to the tendency of physico-theology histories to focus on the achievements of virtuosi rather than well-known scientists. This groundbreaking monograph, the first in English on physico-theology on a European scale, seeks to rectify this oversight. It delves into two primary genres: the argument from design and the palaeontological argument regarding the role of the Deluge in the formation of fossils. While not neglecting the practical aspects of correspondence and collecting, it places considerable emphasis on the historical context, particularly the evolving image of God as a wise, benevolent, and predictable being, which provided practitioners of physico-theology with a powerful new argument.

The phenomenon of physico-theology was predominantly Protestant in nature, and this monograph sheds light on its longevity in Britain and the Netherlands, where it persisted until the first half of the nineteenth century. By examining the historical trajectory of physico-theology, this work contributes to our understanding of the complex interplay between religion, science, and society during this transformative period. It underscores the significance of recognizing and appreciating the contributions of physico-theology to the history of knowledge, as it played a pivotal role in shaping the intellectual and cultural landscape of early modern Europe.

Weight: 646g
Dimension: 164 x 241 x 28 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780192864369