Benjamin Whichcote
Full Name and Common Aliases
Benjamin Whichcote was born Benjamin Whichecot in 1609.
Birth and Death Dates
Benjamin Whichcote was born in 1609 in London, England. He died on June 6, 1683.
Nationality and Profession(s)
He was an English clergyman and a prominent figure of the Cambridge Platonists.
Early Life and Background
Whichcote's early life is not well-documented. However, it is known that he attended Trinity College in Cambridge University where he received his BA degree. He later became a fellow at the same institution. After graduating from Trinity College, Whichcote went on to study theology at Emmanuel College, also located within the grounds of the university.
During his time as a student, Whichcote was exposed to various philosophical and theological ideas that would shape his future thoughts. His involvement with the Cambridge Platonists had a significant influence on his intellectual pursuits.
Major Accomplishments
Benjamin Whichcote's most notable accomplishments include his contributions to the Cambridge Platonist movement. He was also known for being one of the founders of the movement, alongside other prominent thinkers such as Ralph Cudworth and Henry More.
Whichcote made significant strides in various theological areas, including moral philosophy, ethics, and metaphysics. His work helped lay the groundwork for future philosophical discussions within his community.
Notable Works or Actions
Some notable works by Whichcote include "Moral Philosophie" and "Select Discourses." The first is considered one of his most important contributions to the field of ethics, where he explores moral philosophy in depth. His other significant work, "Select Discourses," focuses on metaphysics.
Whichcote's actions were guided by his commitment to spreading knowledge about Platonism. He actively encouraged others to learn more and engage with the philosophical ideas that shaped the movement.
Impact and Legacy
Benjamin Whichcote's influence extended far beyond his immediate circle of peers. His work helped shape the intellectual landscape of England in the 17th century, laying the groundwork for further philosophical exploration within various fields.
The Cambridge Platonist movement, led by figures like Whichcote, was instrumental in shaping the way people thought about metaphysics and ethics during that time period. This legacy can be seen in the lasting impact his ideas have had on thinkers across different disciplines.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Benjamin Whichcote is widely quoted due to the significance of his contributions to moral philosophy, ethics, and metaphysics. His work helped spark a broader conversation about the importance of understanding human nature within the context of morality and ethics.
The quotes from Benjamin Whichcote that are frequently cited reflect the central themes present in his writings: the interconnectedness of ethics and knowledge, the significance of human experience, and the ongoing pursuit of wisdom.
Quotes by Benjamin Whichcote
Benjamin Whichcote's insights on:
Serenity of mind and calmness of thought is a better enjoyment; than anything without us.
It is a great deal easier to commit a second sin, than it was to commit the first; and a great deal harder to repent of a second, than it was to repent of the first.
In many cases, it is very hard to fix the bounds of Good and Evil, because these part, as Day and Night, which are separated by Twilight.
The more mysterious, the more imperfect; as darkness is, in comparison with light – so is mystery, in comparison with knowledge.
Truth is not only a man’s ornament but his instrument; it is the great man’s glory, and the poor man’s stock: a man’s truth is his livelihood, his recommendation, his letters of credit.
Either be a true friend or a mere stranger: a true friend will delight to do good – a mere stranger will do no harm.