J. David Hoeveler Books

Focusing on the nine colonial colleges, this book explores their pivotal role in shaping early American intellectual life amidst significant political and cultural shifts, including Puritanism, Enlightenment thought, and the Great Awakening. J. David Hoeveler provides a comprehensive analysis of institutions like Harvard, Yale, and Princeton, tracing their influence on the country's intellectual development leading up to the American Revolution. This work offers a unique synthesis of how these colleges navigated and contributed to the era's ideological currents.

The book explores the roots of the Progressive-era belief that public universities should extend their impact beyond campus boundaries. It traces this concept back to nineteenth-century German idealism, liberal Protestantism, and evolutionary theory, highlighting the contributions of influential American educator John Bascom. Through these historical lenses, the text examines how educational philosophies evolved to prioritize societal improvement and community engagement.

The biography explores James McCosh's pivotal role in bridging the gap between evolution and evangelicalism during the nineteenth century. It highlights his influence as a philosopher, religious leader, and educator, emphasizing his contributions to Scottish and American philosophy as well as his impact on American education. J. David Hoeveler presents a detailed examination of McCosh's life and ideas, showcasing his importance in reconciling these two significant intellectual forces.