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Author Mutch, Alistair, 1954- author.

Title Religion and national identity : governing Scottish Presbyterianism in the eighteenth century / Alistair Mutch
Published Edinburgh : Edinburgh University Press, [2015]
©2015

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Description 1 online resource
Contents Looking for practices -- The emergence of a governance system -- Presbyterial business -- The Kirk session -- Handling finances -- Scottish systemic accountability -- Contrasts and consequences
Summary Presbyterianism has shaped Scotland and its impact on the world. Behind its beliefs lie some distinctive practices of governance which endure even when belief fades. These practices place a particular emphasis on the detailed recording of decisions and what we can term a 'systemic' form of accountability. This book examines the emergence and consolidation of such practices in the eighteenth century Church of Scotland. Using extensive archival research and detailed local case studies, it contrasts them to what is termed a 'personal' form of accountability in England in the same period. This supports the contrast that has been made by other authors between a focus on system in Scotland, character in England. The wider impact of this approach to governance and accountability, especially in the United States of America, is explored, as is the enduring impact of these practices in shaping Scottish identity. This book offers a fresh perspective on the Presbyterian legacy in contemporary Scottish historiography, at the same time as informing current debates on national identity. Key Features:. A novel focus on religion as social practice, as opposed to belief or organization A strong focus on Scotland, but in the context of Britain Extensive archival work in the Church of Scotland records, with an emphasis on form as well as content A different focus on the Church of Scotland in the eighteenth centuryOffers a detailed focus on local practice in the context of national debates
Bibliography Includes bibliographical references (pages 235-260) and index
Subject Church of Scotland -- History -- 18th century
SUBJECT Church of Scotland fast
Subject Historiography -- Scotland -- History -- 18th century
Religion and politics -- Scotland -- History -- 18th century
National characteristics, Scottish.
RELIGION -- Christianity -- Presbyterian.
Historiography
National characteristics, Scottish
Religion and politics
Scotland
Genre/Form History
Form Electronic book
ISBN 9780748699162
0748699163
9781474403443
1474403441