Claire Schwartz Book order (chronological)

Upon returning from America, where his missionary efforts concluded, Berkeley published Alciphron: or, the Minute Philosopher. The seven dialogues serve as a theoretical realization of Berkeley's goal to spread Christianity and combat free-thinking by establishing foundational principles for educator training. Educators are tasked with enlightening individuals who are often blinded by the alluring yet simplistic rhetoric of free-thinkers and atheists. The term ‘minute philosophers’ refers to those who focus on sensory details, reducing human nature to an animalistic level and obscuring the noble destiny promised by Christianity. Only a discerning observer, capable of appreciating the harmonious totality of natural laws ordained by divine providence, can counter the frivolous pedantry of libertines pursuing egoistic interests. Berkeley advocates for a training approach that equips educators to help others distinguish between good and bad, or to separate the wheat from the chaff. This edition includes the complete English text of Alciphron (1732 second edition) alongside scholarly studies from European academics.