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BY WILLIAM JAMES

"The Will to Believe: And Other Essays in Popular Philosophy" is a thought-provoking collection of essays by renowned philosopher William James. Delving into the realms of belief, faith, and truth, James challenges readers to explore the significance of our deepest convictions in shaping our lives. Through engaging prose and philosophical insight, this book invites readers to contemplate the nature of belief and the power it holds over our actions and perceptions. Whether you are an avid philosopher or simply curious about the complexities of human thought, "The Will to Believe" offers a compelling journey into the realms of popular philosophy that will leave you questioning your own beliefs and values.

Longnans Green. Project Gutenberg. 1896. 173p.

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By Wiliam James

"The Varieties of Religious Experience: A Study in Human Nature" by William James is a timeless exploration of the diverse ways individuals experience and express their spirituality. Published over a century ago, this seminal work delves deep into the psychology of religion, examining the fundamental nature of religious beliefs, rituals, and mystical encounters across different cultures and traditions. Drawing from an extensive range of examples, James offers profound insights into the profound impact of religious experiences on human consciousness, behavior, and overall well-being. A thought-provoking and insightful read, this book continues to resonate with readers seeking a deeper understanding of the complex tapestry of human spirituality."

NY. Longmans Green. Project Gutenberg. 1902. 336p

By Gijs Kruijtzer

How do people justify what others see as transgression? Taking that question to the Persian-Muslim and Latin-Christian worlds over the period 1200 to 1700, this book shows that people in both these worlds invested considerable energy in worrying, debating, and writing about proscribed practices. It compares how people in the two worlds came to terms with the proscriptions of sodomy, idolatry, and usury. When historians speak of the gap between premodern practice and the legal theory of the time, they tend to ignore the myriad of justifications that filled this gap. Moreover, a focus on justification evens out many of the contrasts that have been alleged to exist between the two worlds, or the Muslim and Christian worlds more generally. The similarities outweigh the differences in the ways people came to terms with the various rules of divine law. The level of flexibility of the theologians and jurists in charge of divine law varied more over time and by topic than between the two worlds. Both worlds also saw the development of ever more sophisticated justifications. Amid the increasing complexity of justifications, a particular kind of reasoning emerged: that good outcomes are more important than upholding rules for their own sake.

Berlin: DeGruyter, 2024. 344p.