A Grammar of Freethought

Format:

Book

Author/Creator:

Cohen, Chapman, 1868-

Language:

English

Physical Description:

1 online resource : multiple file formats

Place of Publication:

Salt Lake City, UT : Project Gutenberg,

Summary:

"A Grammar of Freethought" by Chapman Cohen is a philosophical treatise written in the early 20th century. The work explores the principles of Freethought, which challenge traditional religious beliefs and advocate for a rational, skeptical approach to understanding the world. Cohen examines the evolution of religious thought and its decline in the face of scientific reasoning and social progress, aiming to articulate a worldview based on reason rather than authority. The opening of the book introduces the concept of Freethought by discussing the historical prevalence of religion as both a defining feature of human culture and a source of colossal mistakes in human understanding. Cohen highlights how advanced civilizations increasingly outgrow their reliance on deities by showcasing the diminishing influence of gods as societies become more rational. He argues that critical examination and skepticism are essential for personal and societal growth, suggesting that religion often hinders moral and social development. This introduction effectively sets the tone for the ensuing exploration of Freethought, highlighting an ongoing struggle against the irrationality and limitations imposed by traditional beliefs. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Contents:

Outgrowing the gods

Life and mind

What is Freethought?

Rebellion and reform

The struggle for the child

The nature of religion

The utility of religion

Freethought and God

Freethought and death

This world and the next

Evolution

Darwinism and design

Ancient and modern

Morality without God

Christianity and morality

Religion and persecution

What is to follow religion?

Credits:

Produced by Marilynda Fraser-Cunliffe, S.D., and the Online Distributed Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net

Notes:

Reading ease score: 56.4 (10th to 12th grade). Somewhat difficult to read.

Release date is 2011-07-28