This past few weeks, my mind has been rather occupied with the publication and launch of my new biography of Blaise Pascal: ‘The Man who Made the Modern World’. I first had the idea of writing a biography of Pascal about 30 years ago when I was working on my PhD thesis on St Paul, Martin Luther and Pascal.
It's a splendid work! Congratulations. As a book review editor, I'll certainly get someone to review it. I learned tons about Pascal's family life (including the tensions), the famous scientific experiments, and his relations with Port-Royal and his libertines friends. You also drew a very fine portrait of the Great Century and the dawning absolutist order. Well done on all counts. I do note that you didn't cite Pierre Manent's recent (2022) study of Pascal. The two of you may have some disagreements about the the dispute over sufficient and efficient grace, the character of the argument limned in the Pensées, and Pascal's view of political order. Any reason you didn't cite or refer to him?
Thanks Paul - really glad you enjoyed the Pascal book. The reason I didn't reference Pierre Manent is I hadn't come across it - but I have now! I've just ordered it & will look forward to reading it over the summer!
Thank you, Graham. Very kind of you to respond to a total stranger (from the US, no less). To repeat: your book is first-rate, and probably will serve the English-reading audience as the standard book for those who want an overview of the man, the life, the times, and the thought. Kudos and commendations.
I loved your conversation with Glen Scrivener. Congratulations on your work!
It's a splendid work! Congratulations. As a book review editor, I'll certainly get someone to review it. I learned tons about Pascal's family life (including the tensions), the famous scientific experiments, and his relations with Port-Royal and his libertines friends. You also drew a very fine portrait of the Great Century and the dawning absolutist order. Well done on all counts. I do note that you didn't cite Pierre Manent's recent (2022) study of Pascal. The two of you may have some disagreements about the the dispute over sufficient and efficient grace, the character of the argument limned in the Pensées, and Pascal's view of political order. Any reason you didn't cite or refer to him?
Thanks Paul - really glad you enjoyed the Pascal book. The reason I didn't reference Pierre Manent is I hadn't come across it - but I have now! I've just ordered it & will look forward to reading it over the summer!
Thank you, Graham. Very kind of you to respond to a total stranger (from the US, no less). To repeat: your book is first-rate, and probably will serve the English-reading audience as the standard book for those who want an overview of the man, the life, the times, and the thought. Kudos and commendations.
Thanks for this Graham, looking forward to reading and enjoyed what you shared at the recent CCX Resource Church Leaders gathering