LYCOS RETRIEVER 
Calvinism: System
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What Calvinism accomplished was to fulfill the psychic needs of both upwardly mobile middle class entrepreneurs and alienated workers. Middle class businessmen (and they were men) could ascribe their economic success to their spiritual superiority. These businessmen and others who were predestined to be the Elect of God could turn to alienated workers, and explain to them that their impoverished economic condition was the result of a spiritual failure ordained by God. Their place in the spiritual (and economic) system was predestined. This refocused anger away from material demands in the here and now. Because of their evil and weak nature, those that sinned or committed crimes had to be taught how to change their behavior through punishment, shame, and discipline.
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Calvinism, a centuries-old belief system is put to the test as two prominent authors examine its validity using arguments developed through their extensive study. White takes the point position; Hunt, the counterpoint. The familiar debate format features affirmative and denial statements concerning the Reformer's teachings on God's sovereignty and man's free will; followed by response, defense, and final remarks from the principals.
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The system known as "Calvinism" (or Reformed Theology) has its roots in the writings of St. Augustine in the 4th century. Church historian, Philip Schaff, documents St. Augustine's beliefs in his introduction to the works of St. Augustine.
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The following is the introductory chapter of Dr. Laurence M. Vance's excellent work entitled, "The Other Side of Calvinism." This definitive work is a 466-page treatment of the theological system known as Calvinism. It is extensively footnoted.
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