Human Nature from Calvin to Edwards

Paul Helm breaks fertile ground in this survey of theological anthropology in the Reformed tradition. Acknowledging the rich patristic and medieval heritage available to Reformed theologians, Helm works through a representative range of authors and materials during the period 1550 to 1750 in order to identify certain ways of thinking as well as elements of development and change. Addressing topics like the relation of body and soul, faculty psychology, and moral agency, Helm develops a compelling picture of Reformed thought on human nature that is sure to encourage more studies on this topic for years to come.

Table of Contents:

Preface

Introduction

1. Patristic and Medieval Sources of Faculty Psychology

2. The Anthropology of Calvin and Vermigli

3. Body and Soul

4. The Faculties and Powers of the Soul

5. Morality and Agency

6. The Intertwining Self

7. Faculty Psychology and Reformed Polemics

8. Beyond Faculty Psychology? John Locke and Jonathan Edwards

9. The Last Word

Appendix A – Herman Bavinck’s Psychology

Appendix B – John Locke’s Critique of Faculty Psychology

Appendix C – Faculty Psychology and Contemporary Philosophy

Bibliography

Author

PAUL HELM is a teaching fellow at Regent College, Vancouver, where he was previously the J. I. Packer Professor of Philosophical Theology. Before going to Regent he was professor of history and philosophy of religion at King’s College in London. His books include Eternal God, The Providence of God, Faith with Reason, John Calvin’s Ideas, and John Calvin: A Guide for the Perplexed.