"The Philosopher of Free Religion" presents an intellectual biography of Francis E. Abbot (1836-1903). Abbot was a radical figure in the American free thought tradition. Chapters alternate between biographical periods and the philosophical and theological thought of each period. In the conclusion, an evaluation is presented of Abbot's contributions as a philosopher and member of the Metaphysical Club, in social philosophy, and in serving as the prophet of Free Religion.
This intellectual biography reveals Albert Eustace Haydon’s growth from a pre-scientific Christianity to a scientific study of religions in light of evolution and pragmatic philosophy. Replacing G. B. Foster in comparative religion at the University of Chicago in 1919, Haydon became one of the most important figures in the development of humanism as a religious movement in North America, providing leadership in the writing of the first Humanist Manifesto in 1933. Today Haydon’s writings remain a most important interpretation of religions from a humanist perspective. This work will be valuable to classes which deal with philosophical, religious, social, and intellectual thought in North America since Charles Darwin.