John Wesley's Political World

This book explores John Wesley's political and social tracts through a global history lens, emphasizing the personal element and themes of liberty and loyalty. It reflects on the impact of global conflicts on Britain and provides insight into the religious world's responses. Wesley's political foundations were social and personal, based on a compact of trust. The book contributes to eighteenth-century religious history and Wesley Studies by engaging with primary sources and secondary literature.

Format: Hardback
Length: 218 pages
Publication date: 21 October 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive book delves into the political and social tracts of John Wesley (1703–1791) through a global history lens. It emphasizes the personal dimension of Wesley's political thought, highlighting the twin themes of liberty and loyalty. Wesley's political writings offer valuable insights into the impact of global conflicts on Britain and shed light on the political responses of the broader religious world of the eighteenth century. They encompass a wide range of topics, including the nature and origin of political power, economy, taxation, trade, opposition to slavery and smuggling, British rule in Ireland, relaxation of anti-Catholic Acts, and the American Revolution.

Glen O'Brien contends that Wesley's political foundations were more social and personal than theological. Political engagement was seen as part of a social contract held together by a compact of trust.

The book makes a significant contribution to eighteenth-century religious history and Wesley Studies in particular by engaging with primary sources and recent secondary literature to contextualize Wesley's writings within the broader global political landscape. Through this fresh approach, readers gain a deeper understanding of Wesley's ideas and their relevance to the world of his time.

Weight: 580g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032111483