Author
F. B. (Frank Byron) Jevons
1858-1936
F. B. (Frank Byron) Jevons (1858-1936) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
WikipediaBooks by F. B. (Frank Byron) Jevons
Evolution
"Evolution" by Frank B. Jevons is a philosophical essay written in the late 19th century. The work explores the implications of the scientific theory of evolution on human thought and morality, questioning how acceptance of this theory should influence a person's ethical actions in the world. Jevons engages with the tension between science and religion, tackling themes of optimism, progress, and the nature of good and evil. At the start of the book, Jevons sets the stage for a critical examination of societal views on progress fostered by scientific advancements. He highlights the profound changes in civilization in the last fifty years, underlining a general sense of optimism that pervades society, suggesting a belief in a continuous movement toward improvement. Within this context, he raises the question of whether this optimism is justified and explores the potential consequences of the evolutionary perspective on humanity's moral framework. Jevons's inquiry leads to a deeper investigation into the interplay between evolution and ethics, setting the tone for a rich philosophical discourse on the nature of existence and moral evolution.
An Introduction to the Study of Comparative Religion
"An Introduction to the Study of Comparative Religion" by Frank Byron Jevons is a scholarly examination of the various forms of religious belief and practice, written in the early 20th century. The text serves as part of a series of lectures aimed at students and missionaries, providing a framework for understanding the historical and contextual significance of world religions, with a specific focus on how these can relate to the missionary efforts of Christianity. The work endeavors to explore the evolution of religious thought and the intrinsic values associated with different belief systems. At the start of the publication, Jevons sets the groundwork by discussing the purpose of studying comparative religion in relation to its practical application, especially for missionaries. He emphasizes that while the science of religion can document and compare various faiths, it remains neutral on the question of their ultimate truth or value. This initial portion outlines the significant role that comparative religion plays in understanding humanity's quest for the divine, detailing the ways in which differing beliefs can share similarities and yet reveal critical differences that warrant consideration in religious practice and outreach.
The Idea of God in Early Religions
"The Idea of God in Early Religions" by F. B. Jevons is a scholarly examination of the concept of divinity in early religious systems, written in the early 20th century. The work delves into how societies have perceived gods, exploring the distinctions between gods, fetishes, and the roles they play within communities. Jevons aims to uncover the evolution of religious consciousness, focusing on the social and emotional aspects of worship and the underlying philosophies that inform early religious practices. At the start of the text, Jevons outlines the foundational premise that individuals are born into a community with pre-existing beliefs and social constructs. He discusses how humans learn to communicate and internalize the norms and ideas of their society, including their concept of higher powers. By examining the differences between fetishism and polytheism, he argues that the idea of a god functioning for the welfare of the community emerged alongside an individual's sense of self-awareness. This opening portion sets the stage for further exploration of ritual, mythology, and the communal consciousness surrounding the divine in subsequent chapters.