Manhood and Mary Baker Eddy
Muscular Christianity and Christian Science
Bibliographic Data
| ID | 3583732 |
|---|---|
| Authors | Jonathon Eder, J M Eder (Boston Public Library, corresponding author) |
| Year | 2020 |
| Volume | 89 |
| Issue | 4 |
| Pages | 875-896 |
| Publication date | 2020-12-01 |
| Open Access | Yes |
| Type | ARTICLE |
| Venue | Church History (JOURNAL) |
| Journal identifiers | ISSN: 0009-6407 • E-ISSN: 1755-2613 |
| Publisher | Cambridge University Press (CUP) (PUBLISHER) |
| DOI | 10.1017/s0009640720001390 |
| OpenAlex | W3141188775 |
| Language | EN |
| References cited | 7 |
On first examination, "muscular Christianity"-with its emphasis on manly vigor and physical strength-positions itself well afield of Christian Science teachings on the non-physical basis of existence, as propounded by founder Mary Baker Eddy. Nonetheless, both movements arose in the nineteenth century with a deep commitment to revitalizing Christianity and its practical value in an increasingly scientific and secular age, especially regarding bodily well-being. Both Eddy and advocates of muscular Christianity defended their respective systems on scientific and religious grounds, focusing on questions of health. At a time when the Young Men's Christian Association was a leading exponent of muscular Christianity, Eddy saw fit to give it significant philanthropic support. While her gift reflected civic goodwill as opposed to a close relationship with the Association, I argue that it was not anomalous to Eddy's overall values and vision for Christian Science. Like muscular Christians, Eddy was calling for a progressive Christianity that met the criteria of a pragmatic age. In giving attention to issues around manhood, Eddy was signaling the necessity as well as potentiality of Christian spirituality to be a source of health and empowerment for modern man
Christianity · Early Christianity · Empowerment · Political science · Sociology · Spirituality · Diversity and Impact of Dance · Historical Studies on Reproduction, Gender, Health, and Societal Changes · Law · Medicine · Philosophy · Religious studies · Religious Studies and Spiritual Practices
| Highly cited | No |
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