Dr Leech’s book examines – through an analysis of an episode in the evolution of the concept of spiritual substance – how conceptual changes in early modern metaphysics were an ingredient in the origins of modern speculative atheism.

This prize is awarded annually to the ten best doctoral or first post-doctoral works on the topic of religion. In addition to the prize of $10,000 each, the winners have the chance to propose an international and interdisciplinary colloquium on an important academic topic. Each year two Lautenschlaeger Colloquia are supported.