This collection of original essays by the nations leading political theorists examines the origins of modernity and considers the question of tolerance as a product of early modern religious skepticism. Rather than approaching the problem through a purely historical lens the authors actively demonstrate the significance of these issues to contemporary debates in political philosophy and public policy. The contributors to Early Modern Skepticism raise and address questions of the utmost significance Is religious faith necessary for ethical behavior Is skepticism a fruitful ground from which to argue for toleration This book will be of interest to historians philosophers religious scholars and political theoristsanyone concerned about the tensions between private beliefs and public behavior.