Growth the Only Evidence of Life: Development of Doctrine and The Idea of a University

Abstract

Traces in Newman’s early life the formation of his insight into the concept of doctrine as a developing process rather than a static entity. Uses this idea as a springboard for analyzing Newman’s Essay on the Development of Doctrine and his application of the theory of development in The Idea of a University. Examines early diaries and letters to show that Newman was gaining insight into his own development and was therefore able to apply this concept to public matters such as Church doctrine and university education. Concludes with a brief assessment of the influence of Wordsworth’s poetry on Newman’s ideas about human development.