The Statesman’s Manual; or The Bible the Best Guide to Political Skill and Foresight: A Lay Sermon, Addressed To The Higher Classes Of Society, With An Appendix, Containing Comments And Essays Connected With The Study Of The Inspired Writings

COLERIDGE'S PROPOSAL FOR NATIONAL EDUCATION
A polemic on the political divisions in English society, which put forth an important proposal for national education. Coleridge explored the necessary conditions for social stability – what he termed Permanence, as distinct from Progress, in a polity – stressing the importance of a shared public sense of community, and national education.

It also contains his thoughts on the use of The Bible as a guide for political administration. Written as a reaction to the post-Waterloo depression in England, The Manual and was not particularly well received. It is, however, a useful tract for studying Coleridge's political and religious thoughts.


Coleridge was a profound political thinker. He began his life as a political radical, and an enthusiast for the French Revolution; but over the years he developed a more conservative view of society, somewhat in the manner of Burke. He had a major influence on Ralph Waldo Emerson and on American Transcendentalism.

Small 8vo. Modern grayest-blue boards, paper label on spine. London: Printed for Gale & Fenner .1816. First Edition. First Printing. (Tinker 695; NCBEL III, 218).

Light staining to front cover; a few small stains to title page; o/w Very Nice.