William Ralph Inge
William Ralph Inge
Biography of a British Theologian and Philosopher
Full Name and Common Aliases
William Ralph Inge was born on June 16, 1860, in Kensington, London, England. He is often referred to as W.R. Inge or the Dean of St Paul's.
Birth and Death Dates
Born: June 16, 1860
Died: February 24, 1954 (at the age of 93)
Nationality and Profession(s)
Inge was a British theologian, philosopher, and Anglican priest. He held various positions in the Church of England throughout his career.
Early Life and Background
William Ralph Inge was born to Thomas Inge, a clergyman, and his wife, Mary (née Taylor). His family had strong connections to the church, which would later influence his own path in life. Inge's early years were marked by education at Marlborough College and later at Trinity College, Cambridge, where he studied theology and philosophy.
Major Accomplishments
Throughout his distinguished career, Inge held several prominent positions:
Dean of St Paul's Cathedral (1911-1934)
Canon of St. Paul's Cathedral (1905-1911)
Fellow of King's College, Cambridge
Member of the British Academy
Inge was a prolific writer and published numerous books on theology, philosophy, and literature.
Notable Works or Actions
Some of Inge's notable works include:
"The Philosophy of Plotinus" (1887) - an early work that demonstrated his interest in Eastern thought
"Mysticism in England" (1899) - a collection of essays on mystical experiences and their significance
* "Christian Mysticism" (1898, 1910, 1922) - three editions of a book exploring the concept of mysticism within Christianity
Inge was also an advocate for social reform and supported various charitable causes throughout his life.
Impact and Legacy
William Ralph Inge's contributions to theology, philosophy, and literature continue to influence contemporary thought. His work on mysticism has had a lasting impact on Western spirituality. As Dean of St Paul's Cathedral, he played a significant role in shaping the spiritual landscape of London during the early 20th century.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Inge's writings are widely quoted due to their clarity and insight into complex theological concepts. His emphasis on mysticism as a vital aspect of Christian experience has resonated with readers across denominational lines. As a prominent figure in British intellectual circles, his opinions on topics ranging from politics to spirituality were highly regarded.
Throughout his life, Inge demonstrated an unwavering commitment to his faith and its practical application in the world. His legacy serves as a testament to the enduring value of spiritual inquiry and the importance of integrating faith with reason.
Quotes by William Ralph Inge
William Ralph Inge's insights on:
There are two kinds of fools. One says, 'This is old, therefore it is good.' The other says, 'This is new, therefore it is better.'
There are two kinds of fools: One says, This is old therefore it is good. The other one says, This is new therefore it is better.
When our first parents were driven out of Paradise, Adam is believed to have remarked to Eve, “My dear, we live in an age of transition.”
The object of studying philosophy is to know one’s own mind, not other peoples.
There is no law of progress. Our future is in our own hands, to make or to mar. It will be an uphill fight to the end, and would we have it otherwise? Let no one suppose that evolution will ever exempt us from struggles. ‘You forget,’ said the Devil, with a chuckle, ’that I have been evolving too.
There are two kinds of fools: one says, “This is old, therefore it is good”; the other says, “This is new, therefore it is better.
The jealous man is so preoccupied with what he hasn’t got that he fails to appreciate the value of what he has got. He loses the ability to feel glad because the sun is shining. He doesn’t see the wonder and the newness of the beginning of spring.
The greatest obstacle to progress is not man’s inherited pugnacity, but his incorrigible tendency to parasitism.