The Influence of Natural Religion on the Temporal Happiness of Mankind

Focusing on "natural religion," Jeremy Bentham critiques the idea that human reason alone can uncover God's will through nature. Writing under the pseudonym "Philip Beauchamp" due to its controversial nature, this 1822 treatise reflects Bentham's skepticism towards religion, aligning with his utilitarian philosophy that equates human happiness with a moral calculus of pleasure and pain. His analysis ultimately concludes that natural religion has a negative impact on human happiness, challenging the validity of faith-based claims.