Historicising Paradox and Secularisation

Abstract This article argues that Joseph Blankholm’s concept of paradox needs to be applied more widely in the historical study of religious/secular relations. Blankholm’s study is useful but illuminates only a moment in the history of the secular (one representing a society where the expression of choice is encouraged by the absence of state religion). Examining the struggle between unbelievers and Christianity in 1880s/1890s Britain illuminates an entirely different moment in which a ‘Christian paradox’ is created by secular critics, commentators upon contemporary Christianity and by Christian modernisers. The Christian paradox emerged as a compulsion to leave behind, or downplay, unhelpful (unnecessary) religious doctrines. Yet the necessity of such doctrines/texts as fundamental to the morality and laws of the UK was enshrined in the claims of the established churches over their respective citizens. This meant their status as ‘markers’ was defended, whilst their explanatory power was melting away. Through an examination of arguments against Christianity, the religious paradox is examined alongside attempts to, alternately, both live with and end it. This emphasises that an individual paradox can ensnare and control both the secular AND the religious at different moments.