Rousseau's God: Theology, Religion, and the Natural Goodness of Man

John T. Scott's book "Rousseau's God" is a landmark study of Rousseaus theological and religious thought, revealing recurrent themes and tracing their evolution over time. It emphasizes the importance of truth and utility for human beings, explaining disagreements with contemporaries and providing a comprehensive understanding of Rousseau's thought.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 288 pages
Publication date: 18 April 2023
Publisher: The University of Chicago Press

John T. Scott's groundbreaking study delves into the profound theological and religious dimensions of Jean-Jacques Rousseau's thought, providing a comprehensive interpretation that encompasses both his standalone works and their broader context within his oeuvre. Through a series of chapters dedicated to key writings, Scott meticulously uncovers recurring themes and traces their evolution over time. He reveals that Rousseau's views on religion are deeply rooted in two fundamental concepts: truth and utility. By examining these concepts, Scott sheds light on the underlying disagreements between Rousseau and his contemporaries, particularly in their differing perspectives on religion and theology. Rousseau's emphasis on both truth and utility helps to explain why he diverged from traditional religious doctrines and advocated for a more humanistic and scientific approach to understanding human nature and the role of science in human life.

Comprehensive and nuanced, Rousseau's God is a crucial lens through which to explore key categories of Rousseau's thought. It sheds light on his philosophical framework, his views on morality, politics, and the nature of human society. By examining Rousseau's theological and religious ideas, Scott offers a deeper understanding of his complex and influential worldview, which continues to resonate in contemporary debates about religion, philosophy, and human nature. This study is a valuable contribution to the field of Rousseau studies and will be of interest to scholars and students alike.

Weight: 394g
Dimension: 382 x 229 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780226825502