It's hard to find any history like this and I'm glad that Fischer brought Elihu Palmer back to life. One of the first to question if religion was needed for a person to be moral. Our country was built on the idea of self governance and morals and self governance go hand in hand. However, Palmer believed (like many of our founders) that being of good character came simply from nature. That man didn't need a higher authority or being to guide him. He only needed his common sense. This book has arrived for me at an important time when I find myself not thinking the same as many people. This book has arrived at an important time when Freedom of Speech is under attack. It's a wonderful reminder that this is not new (though it's sad that this should still be an issue). I'm sure Palmer would have been one of the first to be kicked off Twitter and been cancelled. Also, to note that he had physical aliments yet persevered. A true hero. A must read. You'll need a highlighter!
Thank you Netgalley for this wonderful ARC.