American Studies ETDs

Publication Date

5-2-1974

Abstract

The purpose of this dissertation is to demonstrate from Peirce's own writings the thesis that his hypothesis or creative evolution, when analyzed in terms of his latest development of his conception of continuity, brings science and theology together in a common inquiry. This study analyzes the developmental and interdependent character of Peirce's scientific metaphysics. It shows how his principle of continuity, as a logical principle of inquiry and as a metaphysical principle, enabled him to overcome the dualistic either/or dichotomy which has saturated most philosophical and theological thought throughout its history in the Western world. The analysis includes an investigation of his ideas concerning the process of inquiry and the objects of knowledge. As a commentary on his hypothesis or creative evolution from the standpoint of his latest conception of continuity, a consideration is given to the following topics: 1) systematic completeness in philosophy, 2) the triadic nature of creative evolution, 3) the idea of continuity in creative evolution, 4) God as Creator, and, 5) evolutionary love. This analysis yields the following results or conclusions. First, as theoretical methods or inquiry, the ultimate goal, spirit, and even method itself, when properly conceived and carried out, was intended by Peirce to be the same for both science and theology. Second, his view of agapasm, which finds its source in God as Creator, was an implicit guiding principle, or controlling influence on him throughout his philosophical career. And third, in the final analysis, his view of agapasm follows from and coincides with his final development of his concept of continuity, and thus brings together am directs all inquiry toward a common goal.

Language

English

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

American Studies

Level of Degree

Doctoral

Department Name

American Studies

First Committee Member (Chair)

Archie John Bahm

Second Committee Member

Joel M. Jones

Third Committee Member

Charles DeWayne Biebel

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