Letters on the New Haven Theology

Encyclopedia com "NEW HAVEN THEOLOGY
Also known as Taylorism, refers to the 19th-century New England theological system that originated with Nathaniel William taylor, professor at Yale Divinity School, New Haven, Conn. (1822–58). An exposition of Puritan theology, it was the most influential and controversial since that of Jonathan edwards. Using rational philosophy, Taylor devised a system that dealt with human responsibility and featured freedom of the will. Taylor, called "the Pelagianist" by some Calvinists, taught that there is a native sinlessness in man, an ability in him to renovate his own soul, and self-love, or the desire for happiness, is the source of all voluntary action. Although he considered himself to be in the Edwards tradition, Taylor's views represented a serious departure from strict Puritan Calvinism (see great awakening). His teaching that man's acts are not necessitated, but free, because man may act "in a contrary way at all times," was interpreted by many as a denial of Calvinism's cardinal tenet on the absolute sovereignty of God.