Mysticism is condemned as often as it is praised. Much of the condemnation comes from mysticism’s apparent disregard of morality and ethics. For mystics, the experience of “union” transcends all moral concern. In this careful examination of the works of such practitioners or examiners of mysticism as Paul Tillich, Thomas Merton, Evelyn Underhill, and Martin Buber, the author posits a spectrum of uneasy relationships between mysticism and morality. Horne explores the polarities of apophatic (imageless) and imaginative mysticism, the contemplative and the active life, and morality and amorality. He stresses the importance of the distinction between “proper-name” (entirely personal) morality and “social” morality, for the history of Christian mysticism is a mix of minimal moral concern, proper-name morality, and social morality.

The volume will be of interest to students of religious experience, ethics, and the recent history of mysticism. Carefully reasoned and documented, the argument is couched in clear prose, easily accessible to lay readers as well as to scholars.

James R. Horne, an Anglican clergyman, is Associate Professor and Chairman of the Department of Philosophy at the University of Waterloo. He holds a B.Th. from Huron College and a Ph.D. from Columbia University. His research has included study of the Canadian mystic Richard Maurice Bucke. His articles have appeared in a number of journals, including Studies in Religion / Sciences Religieuses, Dialogue, Religious Studies, Ontario History, and The Journal of Religion.

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"Presents a challenge to all who are currently wrestling with the philosophical analysis of mysticism."

Scottish Journal of Religious Studies