Anthony Collins Libros

Focusing on the theological debates of the early 18th century, this work explores the tensions between Deism and orthodox Christianity. Collins engages with William Whiston's defense of traditional beliefs, particularly Whiston's controversial claim about Jewish alterations to the Old Testament. Instead of mocking Whiston, Collins highlights the reliance of the New Testament on nonliteral interpretations of Old Testament prophecies regarding Jesus Christ, making a significant contribution to the discourse on scriptural interpretation and messianic fulfillment.

The Philosophical Inquiry concerning Human Liberty of Anthony Collins' was considered by Joseph Priestley and Voltaire to be the best book written on freewill up to their own time. Priestley admitted that it convert­ ed him to determinism and it had a powerful effect on Voltaire in the same direction. It seems important to place in its wider historical context a book which so influenced such men and which greatly impressed the philosophes in general. Therefore - and because such an account has value in itself - the Introduction contains a survey of the freewill controversy from the time of Hobbes to that of Leibniz, giving in some detail the opinions of Hobbes, Locke, Pierre Bayle, William King, Archbishop of Dublin, and Leibniz and an account of the Scholastic doctrine of liberty of indifference - opinions which either influenced Collins or against which he reacted. The value and originality of Collins' works need assessing. He was also at times liable to misinterpret or misunderstand the authorities he quoted. I have, therefore, subjected the Inquiry to a detailed critique. This also gives cross-references to parallel passages in Collins' works and those of the authors who influenced him, and, by discussing the philosophical and theological questions to which his writings give rise, obviates the need for a good many footnotes in the notes that follow the text.

In this pioneering work of philosophy, Anthony Collins explores the nature of human liberty, probing the limits of free will and the implications of determinism. With characteristic clarity and insight, Collins makes a compelling case for the importance of individual freedom in the pursuit of happiness and the common good. This new edition of his classic text offers readers a fresh perspective on one of the most important debates in philosophy.

Selected for its cultural significance, this work offers a reproduction of an original artifact, preserving its authenticity and historical context. Readers will encounter original copyright references and library stamps, reflecting its importance in the knowledge base of civilization. This edition aims to maintain fidelity to the original text, providing insight into its enduring relevance and scholarly value.

The book is a facsimile reprint of a scarce antiquarian work, preserving its historical significance. While it may include imperfections typical of older texts, such as marks and notations, the reprint aims to maintain the integrity of the original. This effort reflects a commitment to protecting and promoting important literary works, making them accessible in high-quality, modern editions.

Culturally significant, this work has been preserved in its original form, reflecting the historical context and knowledge base of civilization. It includes authentic copyright references and library stamps, showcasing its journey through important libraries worldwide. The reproduction aims to maintain fidelity to the original artifact, providing readers with a glimpse into the past and its enduring relevance.

The book's age and rarity contribute to the potential difficulty in reading, as many pages may feature blurred text from the original printing. This aspect highlights its historical significance and the challenges of preserving older literature.