Reforming Free Will: A Conversation on the History of Reformed Views

In the light of what powers and faculties are human beings responsible individuals in the everyday? In his theological, historical and philosophical examination of reformed orthodox views of free will and divine sovereignty Paul Helm considers determinism and compatibilism and their historical development between 1500 and 1800. He graciously tackles the views of Richard A. Muller and Antonie Vos to argue that compatibilism is deeply rooted and represents the mainstream understanding of the reformers’ conviction on the matter.

Publisher: Christian Focus
Type: Paperback
ISBN: 9781527106062

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Paul Helm was Professor of the History and Philosophy of Religion, King’s College, London, 1993 – 2000. Before that he taught at the University of Liverpool for thirty years, and afterwards at Regent College, Vancouver during the years 2001–5. He has written a number of books. His latest is Human Nature from Calvin to Edwards (2018).

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… a scholarly yet readable discussion with interlocutors Richard A. Muller and Anthonie Vos on Reformed Orthodoxy anthropology, in particular human freedom, with attention to issues, such as (synchronic) contingency, compatibilism, and necessity. Highly recommended, and a must–read for any serious student and scholar of early modern studies. Adriaan C. Neele, Professor, Historical Theology and Director of the Doctoral Program, Puritan Reformed Theological Seminary, Grand Rapids, Michigan