The divisions of this book are entitled “chapters,” but it will be plain to every reader that they are in fact the printed record of lectures—twelve lectures delivered during the winter of 1929-30 before the University of St. Andrews on the foundation of Lord Gifford; and that I have not attempted to alter their character. The fact that they are lectures must be my excuse for some obvious repetitions, such as seemed to be necessary if what was to be said was to be made intelligible to an audience which did not consist entirely of the same persons on each occasion. It is also to be borne in mind that the lectures were intended to be intelligible to an audience not mainly consisting of expert philosophers. In the introductory lecture I have sufficiently explained the nature of the subject to be dealt with, and the special purpose of the lecturer.

Some years ago in The Reconstruction of Belief I published what was intended to be a systematic apologia for the Christian Faith. Nothing of the sort is attempted in this book. My subject is the idea of the good life as it is to be found in history. Half of the book consists of the historical survey; after which I analyse the presuppositions both of the “idealist” and the more definitely “monotheist” presentations of the good life, and finally in the four last lectures I endeavour to show the superior rationality of the “monotheist” presuppositions in their Christian form. Those who are disposed to agree with my reasonings will then be able to approach what are called the Christian “evidences” without any hostile prejudice.

I do not know that there is anything more that need be said by way of preface. But I must be allowed to express my cordial thanks to the University of St. Andrews—both professors, lecturers, and students—for the kindness with which they received me and for the happy weeks which I passed in their beautiful and historic city.

I owe a debt of gratitude to my neighbour the Rev. Christopher Cheshire for having read the lectures before they went to press and made a number of useful suggestions.

C. G.

27 Eaton Terrace,

London, S.W.

August, 1930.