Abstract: A Calvinist pastor, Jacques Basnage de Beauval was the author of a History of the Jews wherein the use of a historical method allows him to offer an anthropological analysis of religion by means of arguments reminiscent of those of the erudite libertines. He denounces human credulity and the play of passions underlying piety, and uncovers the theologico-political mechanisms of several religions. He can thereby criticise intolerance and justify freedom of conscience.
