'Of the Laws of Ecclesiastical Polity, Book 1' Summary

Richard Hooker's Of the Laws of Ecclesiastical Polity is a seminal work of Anglican theology and political thought. First published in 1594, the work is a defense of the Elizabethan Church of England against the attacks of the Puritans. Hooker argues that the Church of England is a true and legitimate church, and that its polity is based on the laws of nature and reason.

In Book 1 of Of the Laws of Ecclesiastical Polity, Hooker sets forth his understanding of the nature of law. He argues that law is a universal principle of order that exists in both the natural and the moral realms. Law is not simply a human invention, but rather a reflection of the divine order of the universe.

Hooker then goes on to argue that the Church of England is a true and legitimate church. He argues that the Church of England is founded on the laws of nature and reason, and that it is therefore in accordance with the divine will.

Hooker's defense of the Church of England was highly influential in the development of Anglicanism. His work helped to establish the Church of England as a middle way between Roman Catholicism and Puritanism. Of the Laws of Ecclesiastical Polity is still considered a classic work of Anglican theology and political thought, and it continues to be read and studied by scholars today.