A Letter Concerning Enthusiasm, To My Lord- (1708)

""A Letter Concerning Enthusiasm, To My Lord"" is a philosophical work written by Anthony Ashley Cooper, also known as the 3rd Earl of Shaftesbury, in 1708. The book is a letter addressed to an unknown Lord, in which Shaftesbury discusses the concept of enthusiasm and its effects on religion and society.Shaftesbury defines enthusiasm as a form of religious fervor or passion that can lead to irrational behavior and extremism. He argues that while enthusiasm may seem admirable and sincere, it can also be dangerous and harmful to both individuals and society as a whole.In the book, Shaftesbury explores the historical and cultural roots of enthusiasm, tracing its origins back to ancient Greece and Rome. He also examines the role of enthusiasm in various religious movements, including Christianity and Islam.Throughout the letter, Shaftesbury emphasizes the importance of reason and moderation in religious practice. He argues that true religious devotion should be guided by rational thought and a respect for social norms and institutions.Overall, ""A Letter Concerning Enthusiasm, To My Lord"" is a thought-provoking work that offers insights into the nature of religious passion and its impact on society. It remains a significant contribution to the history of philosophy and religious thought.This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the old original and may contain some imperfections such as library marks and notations. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions, that are true to their original work.