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Age of Reason

Age of Reason

By: Thomas Paine
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 In Age of Reason, Thomas Paine boldly challenges the authenticity of the Old and New Testaments, revealing that many biblical books have been misattributed to their supposed authors and cannot be definitively proven as the “word of God.” As a self-identified deist, Paine argues that the physical universe and each individuals conscience are the only true revelations of the Almightys essence and will. Grounded in reason and common sense, he uses the Bible itself as his sole scholarly resource to critique the biblical depiction of God, whom he views as a cruel and capricious figure, starkly contrasting with the benevolent deity reflected in the beauty of creation. Written during the tumultuous period of the French Revolution, while Paine faced grave personal peril, the first volume emerges as a passionate plea for reason. The second, more extensive volume delves deeper into the scriptures, using them to further undermine their authenticity. Finally, a brief concluding volume features personal letters addressing various objections. - Summary by Thomas CopelandCopyright Politics, Philosophy, Religion
Episodes
  • 037 - Part Second Section 21

    037 - Part Second Section 21
    Feb 14 2026
    In Age of Reason, Thomas Paine boldly challenges the authenticity of the Old and New Testaments, revealing that many biblical books have been misattributed to their supposed authors and cannot be definitively proven as the “word of God.” As a self-identified deist, Paine argues that the physical universe and each individuals conscience are the only true revelations of the Almightys essence and will. Grounded in reason and common sense, he uses the Bible itself as his sole scholarly resource to critique the biblical depiction of God, whom he views as a cruel and capricious figure, starkly contrasting with the benevolent deity reflected in the beauty of creation. Written during the tumultuous period of the French Revolution, while Paine faced grave personal peril, the first volume emerges as a passionate plea for reason. The second, more extensive volume delves deeper into the scriptures, using them to further undermine their authenticity. Finally, a brief concluding volume features personal letters addressing various objections. - Summary by Thomas Copeland
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    18 mins
  • 037 - Part Second Section 21

    037 - Part Second Section 21
    Feb 14 2026
    Step into the Enlightenment with The Age of Reason, a groundbreaking deistic treatise penned by the bold eighteenth-century British radical and American revolutionary, Thomas Paine. This pivotal work critiques institutionalized religion and questions the infallibility of the Bible. Released in three parts between 1794 and 1807, it quickly became a bestseller in America, sparking a brief deistic revival. However, it met with considerable resistance in Britain, where fears of political upheaval due to the French Revolution loomed large. Paine passionately argues against the corruption within the Christian Church and its quest for political power, advocating for reason over revelation. He dismisses miracles and regards the Bible as mere literature rather than a sacred text. Importantly, The Age of Reason is not an atheistic manifesto; it champions natural religion and affirms the existence of a creator-God. (Summary by Wikipedia)
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    18 mins
  • 036 - Part Second Section 20

    036 - Part Second Section 20
    Feb 13 2026
    In Age of Reason, Thomas Paine boldly challenges the authenticity of the Old and New Testaments, revealing that many biblical books have been misattributed to their supposed authors and cannot be definitively proven as the “word of God.” As a self-identified deist, Paine argues that the physical universe and each individuals conscience are the only true revelations of the Almightys essence and will. Grounded in reason and common sense, he uses the Bible itself as his sole scholarly resource to critique the biblical depiction of God, whom he views as a cruel and capricious figure, starkly contrasting with the benevolent deity reflected in the beauty of creation. Written during the tumultuous period of the French Revolution, while Paine faced grave personal peril, the first volume emerges as a passionate plea for reason. The second, more extensive volume delves deeper into the scriptures, using them to further undermine their authenticity. Finally, a brief concluding volume features personal letters addressing various objections. - Summary by Thomas Copeland
    Show More Show Less
    16 mins
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