Of the Nature and Qualification of Religion in Reference to Civil Society

work by Pufendorf

Also known as: “De Habitu Religionis Christianae ad Vitam Civilem”(Show More)

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July 16, 2026

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Samuel Pufendorf's Of the Nature and Qualification of Religion in Reference to Civil Society (1687) argues for the civil superiority of the state over the church. However, it also defends the church's authority in ecclesiastical matters and the individual's freedom of conscience. Pufendorf's work established the basis for the collegial system of church government, influencing church and state relations in Germany. The book also advocated for religious tolerance, particularly supporting the elector of Brandenburg's asylum for Huguenots. This work explores the relationship between religious belief and civil society, emphasizing the state's role in maintaining order while respecting individual religious freedom.1

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Samuel, baron von Pufendorf
Career in Sweden
In 1687 he published Of the Nature and Qualification of Religion in Reference to Civil Society, which set forth the civil superiority of the state over the church but also defended the church’s power in ecclesiastical matters as well as the freedom of conscience of the individual. His approach…
Read More
In 1687 he published Of the Nature and Qualification of Religion in Reference to Civil Society, which set forth the civil superiority of the state over the church but also defended the church’s power in ecclesiastical matters as well as the freedom of conscience of the individual. His approach…
Read More