William George de Burgh

Professor Emeritus of Philosophy, University of Reading

From Morality to Religion

In his series of lectures, de Burgh writes, ‘My purpose is twofold: I want to first show how moral experience presents a problem which philosophy is unable to solve, and which points to religion for its solution. The problem is that of the dualism of ethical principles, according as conduct is motivated by the thought of obligation or by desire for a rational good. Secondly, I shall consider the larger issue of the relationship by way of action and reaction, of morality to religion and religion to morality’.

Biography

William George de Burgh was born on 24 October 1866 in London. An English philosopher, de Burgh is credited with attempting to create a Christian philosophical argument for the truth of the gospel. In 1890, he served as Assistant Master at Derby School, and in 1892, he was appointed Censor of Studies at Balliol House and Wadham House, two university settlements in London. He became Lecturer in Greek and Latin in the University Extension College at Reading in 1896, guiding its development into a university in 1926.

His recognition as a scholar came later in his career due to his involvement in university administration. In 1938, he was appointed Riddell Memorial Lecturer at Newcastle and Fellow of the British Academy. De Burgh’s endearing nature was rooted in the religious faith expressed in his motto, In Cruce Salus, salvation comes from the cross. While his ideas were unfashionable, they were impressive to those in agreement. Notable works include The Legacy of the Ancient World (1924), Towards a Religious Philosophy (1937), and The Life of Reason (1949).

Published/Archival Resources

Published as From Morality to Religion.