An Examination of President Edwards' Inquiry into the Freedom of the Will

Albert Taylor Bledsoe

Sep 2022 · DigiCat

About this ebook

In 'An Examination of President Edwards' Inquiry into the Freedom of the Will,' Albert Taylor Bledsoe delves into the philosophical arguments put forth by Jonathan Edwards regarding free will. Bledsoe carefully dissects Edwards' ideas, presenting a critical analysis that challenges the notion of predestination. Through meticulous examination and rigorous reasoning, Bledsoe offers a scholarly perspective on the complexities of human agency and moral responsibility within the framework of theological discourse. The book is a thought-provoking exploration of metaphysical concepts and theological debates, presented in a clear and intellectually stimulating manner. Bledsoe's writing style is articulate and concise, making this a valuable contribution to the study of philosophy and theology in the 19th century. Albert Taylor Bledsoe, a prominent American philosopher and academic, was known for his thoughtful reflections on moral philosophy and theological matters. His expertise in these subjects lends credibility to his critique of President Edwards' work on free will. Bledsoe's scholarly background and intellectual curiosity are evident in his meticulous analysis, providing readers with a comprehensive understanding of the philosophical debates surrounding free will and determinism. I highly recommend 'An Examination of President Edwards' Inquiry into the Freedom of the Will' to readers interested in delving into the intricate discussions about free will and moral agency. Bledsoe's insightful examination of Edwards' arguments offers a compelling perspective that challenges conventional beliefs, making this book a valuable resource for scholars and students of philosophy and theology.

About the author

Albert Taylor Bledsoe (1809-1877) was an American scholar, mathematician, lawyer, and theologian well-regarded for his work in the antebellum period. Known for his staunch defense of the South and slavery, he served as a Confederate officer during the American Civil War. Bledsoe was born in Frankfort, Kentucky, and displayed a remarkable intellectual aptitude from a young age, which led him to pursue a diverse educational path. He graduated from West Point in 1830 and had a brief tenure as an assistant professor of mathematics there before resigning to study law. After practicing law for several years, he turned to theology, obtaining his degree from the University of Halle in Germany. Bledsoe's literary style combined rigid logic with a profound philosophical bent, which is evident in his critiques of prevailing philosophical and theological positions of his time. His most notable works include 'An Examination of President Edwards' Inquiry into the Freedom of the Will,' which challenges Jonathan Edwards' views on determinism and free will, and presents Bledsoe's case for human agency and liberty. The analytical rigor with which Bledsoe approached such subjects has made his contributions a point of study for those interested in philosophical theology and the intellectual history of the United States during the 19th century.