'Proper Motions, Actions and Uses': Physiological Knowledge as the Only Means to Rational Politics in Restoration England.

The article discusses the relationship between politics and physiology in seventeenth century England, particularly in the period of the restoration of the monarchy. It comments on the participation of physicians and physiologists in debates on politics and reflects on ideas about the relationship between civic bodies and natural bodies. The author particularly examines the work of natural philosopher and physician Walter Charleton, reflecting on his views on rationality, political and religious authority, and the laws of nature.