Science, metaphysics and Calvinism: the God of James Croll

ABSTRACT Science, for James Croll, began and ended in metaphysics. Metaphysics, turn, provided proof of a First Final Cause all things. This rested on two metaphysical principles: that every event must have cause, the determination cause is distinct from its production. argument emerged his deeply held religious commitments. As 17-year-old, he converted to Calvinist evangelical form Christianity. After period questioning system, embraced it again through reading famous treatise will by New England theologian, Jonathan Edwards. determinedly work, which engaged as much with Enlightenment thought Calvinism, defended view was not self-determining human action. ‘hard case’ basis larger claim act whatever has production an different determination. In part Edwards, Croll remained devout convinced ‘moderate’ rest life. He also developed deep love metaphysics became without it, everything, including science, confused darkness. For even most basic science could be properly conducted prior principles. But this more than just about philosophical foundations scientific inquiry. It based Croll's conviction cosmos, earth history life (including own) fully determined supreme perfect intellect. entered into marrow theories shaped interpretation twists turns own short, take seriously self-understanding, we need allow him ‘do God’.