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184
Book • Nonfiction
1794
Adult
18+ years
Thomas Paine's The Age of Reason is a three-part work published in 1794, 1795, and 1807, advocating Deism and rejecting major monotheistic religions by critiquing the Old and New Testaments. Emphasizing the pursuit of truth through natural philosophy (science), Paine argues that religious texts are fraudulent and promotes Deism as consistent with the spirit of the era's political upheavals. The book contains strong critiques of Judaism and Christianity that some readers may find offensive or sensitive.
Informative
Contemplative
Challenging
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Thomas Paine's The Age of Reason garners mixed reviews: praised for its clear, rational critique of organized religion and promotion of deism, it also faces criticism for perceived oversimplification and historical inaccuracies. While some appreciate its bold, provocative stance, others find it repetitive and lacking theological nuance. Overall, it remains a significant, though polarizing, Enlightenment work.
A reader who enjoys The Age of Reason by Thomas Paine is likely an enthusiast of Enlightenment philosophy, rationalism, and religious critique. Comparable to fans of Voltaire's Candide and John Locke's An Essay Concerning Human Understanding, they appreciate works questioning established dogmas and advocating for intellectual liberty.
10,905 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
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The Creator God
A depiction of the Deist God as portrayed by Paine, who is seen as the Almighty and the Creator but not involved in human affairs beyond the creation, differing from traditional religious narratives.
Jesus Christ
Presented by the New Testament as the divine Son of God whose life encompasses miracles and resurrection; Paine approaches him as a moral philosopher but challenges his divine status and historical existence.
Moses
A central Biblical figure known for leading the Israelites out of Egypt and receiving the Ten Commandments; Paine questions the authenticity of the Old Testament, suggesting doubts about Moses's authorship of key texts.
The Prophets
Biblical figures recognized for their divine messages and prophecies; Paine critiques their validity and suggests that historical misunderstandings could have misconstrued their original roles as poets or musicians.
184
Book • Nonfiction
1794
Adult
18+ years
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