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Of the Lawes of Ecclesiasticall Politie

work by Hooker

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Of the Lawes of Ecclesiasticall Politie is a seminal work by theologian Richard Hooker, written between 1593 and 1597. It defends the Church of England against both Roman Catholicism and Puritanism. Hooker argued for a "threefold cord" of authority: the Bible, church tradition, and human reason. He believed that while Scripture is paramount, reason and tradition are essential for interpreting its meaning and adapting to new circumstances. Hooker also asserted that public power derives from the community and that rulers are accountable to both God and the people, not above the law. This work was influential in shaping Anglican theology and political thought, advocating for a balanced constitution and government by consent.12

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