JONATHAN EDWARDS ON THE “FLYING” SPIDER: A MODEL OF ECOLOGICAL THOUGHT IN MICROCOSM

With a summary of “Of Insects,” Edwards’ essay is placed in its historical context by comparing it to studies in entomology current in his day so as to determine its distinctiveness and originality, if any. Furthermore, an indication will be given as to how his essay belongs to the literary genre of physico-theology and reflects the climate of philosophical opinion of his time.