William Paley

The most comprehensive study on William Paley, one of the major figures in 18th century British philosophy and the first one to frame a systematic utilitarian philosophy.

Paley famously used the 'watchmaker analogy' in his theological argument for the existence of God and long after his death his books were on the examination syllabus both in UK and the United States.

Paley's Evidences of Christianity (1794) was required reading at Cambridge until 1920.

Most importantly, William Paley's Natural Theology had an important influence on Charles Darwin, forming the background to his Origin of Species.

More recently Richard Dawkins has expressed his admiration for William Paley as a thinker.

Paley is also considered to be an important economic theorist - as shown by Malthus' engagement with his books.

Ultimately, the philosopher was also an early and active figure in the anti slavery movement, and he promoted legal and moral reforms to reduce poverty.

Paley continues to be widely familiar to the public, especially to those interested in the conflict between atheism and Christianity, science and religion. Neil Hitchin's study will give them unprecedented insight into the human aspect and humour of the philosopher's life and thought.