Baron Friedrich von Hügel (1852-1925) wrote extensively on issues in the philosophy of religion. He was particularly concerned with questions relating to the importance of the truth--claims of modern science to believing Christians.

Baron Friedrich von Hügel was born in Florence, Italy, on May 5, 1852, the son of an Austrian diplomat and his Scottish wife, recently converted to her husband's Catholic faith. Friedrich's early education was provided by tutors at home; indeed, he never attended school or college and was largely self-taught throughout his life. In 1860 Baron Karl moved his family to Brussels, where he served as ambassador until his retirement in 1867; thereafter the von Hügels resided in Torquay, England, while making frequent visits to the Continent.

Von Hügel's upbringing continued under rather mixed influences. A Quaker tutor introduced him to the study of geology, which became his lifelong avocation. Soon...