An Essay in Aid of a Grammar of Assent [Paperback]

This classic of Christian apologetics seeks to persuade the skeptic that there are good reasons to believe in God even though it si impossible to understand the Deity fully. First written over a century ago, theGrammar of Assentspeaks as powerfully to us today as it did to its first readers. Because of the informal, non-technical character of Newman's work, it still retains its immediacy as an invaluable guide to the nature of religious belief. An introduction by Nicholas Lash reviews the background of theGrammar,highlights its principal themes, and evaluates its philosophical originality.

“Lash’s introduction to this recent reissue of Newman’sGrammar makes that work accessible to contemporary students of philosophy and theology alike. If one wishes a fresh perspective on the shape of the ‘critical questions’ facing philosophical theology, as well as an object lesson in the norms implicit in ordinary discourse properly employed, that person would be well advised to take up this century-old volume.”

“The combination of Newman’s original genius, complemented by Nicholas Lash’s ability to focus his concerns onto ours, makes this edition a useful tool for teachers.”

“Here is presented one of the most famous 19th century statements of Christian apologetics, including a most influential analysis of the faith-reason controversy.”

NICHOLAS LASH is Emeritus Norris-Hulse Professor of Divinity at the University of Cambridge and author ofBelieving Three Ways in One GodandEaster in Ordinary, also published by the University of Notre Dame Press.