1691 John Rays Natural Theology
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1691 John Rays Natural Theology
" The Wisdom of God manifested in the Works of Creation" by John Ray. A photograph of the ninth edition of 1727 with quill pen. In this book Ray developed Natural Theology for an English audience. He argues that the proof of God is clear through the evidence of the benign orderly structure and function of the world. The first edition was published by Ray in 1691. Enlarged editions followed up to the 4th edn in 1704. The work remained his most popular going through more editions well into the 18th Century (as this ninth edition 1727). It was widely emulated by authors such as William Derham and most famously William Paley, (with whose name, Natural Theology is now most associated due to his use of the " watch analogy" or " Paleys Watch" ). In 1844 the Ray Society was founded, one of their first published books was Darwins weighty tome on Barnacles (1854)
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Media ID 6317421
© This image is Paul D. Stewart 2009. Do not reproduce without permission of the photographer at Stewartpauld@aol.com
17th Century Bible Creationist Darwin Intelligent Design Natural Selection Natural Theology Science And Religion Dawkins John Ray Paley
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the ninth edition of John Ray's "Natural Theology" from 1727, accompanied by a quill pen. Originally published in 1691, this book was a groundbreaking work that aimed to present Natural Theology to an English audience. Ray passionately argued that evidence of God's existence could be found in the harmonious and orderly structure of the natural world. Over time, this influential piece underwent several enlarged editions, with its popularity enduring well into the 18th century. It served as inspiration for numerous authors, including William Derham and William Paley. In fact, Paley's name has become most closely associated with Natural Theology due to his famous use of the "watch analogy". Interestingly, in 1844, the Ray Society was established and became known for publishing significant scientific works. One notable publication included Charles Darwin's weighty tome on Barnacles in 1854. This photograph not only captures a historical artifact but also symbolizes the intersection between science and religion during the 17th century. It represents an era when arguments from design were prevalent and debates surrounding creationism versus natural selection began to emerge. Paul D. Stewart expertly captures these rich connections between John Ray's Natural Theology, William Paley's watch analogy, Darwinian evolution through his work behind the lens for Science Photo Library.
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