A Rebuttal of Noyes and Perfectionism

This chapter discusses Rev. Hubbard Eastman's Noyesism Unveiled: A History of the Sect Self-Styled Perfectionists in 1849, which claimed to expose the truth behind the Oneida Association. It emphasizes how Eastman's book was critical of nearly every aspect of John Humphrey Noyes' teachings. It also shows an excerpt of the book, wherein Eastman argued that Noyes' teachings on complex marriage were merely a fac¸ade that he designed to justify licentiousness. The chapter reviews the corrupt suggestions of men and scandalous reports Eastman received about the licentious doctrines and practices of certain Perfectionists. It mentions the “Battle Axe Letter,” which provides an account of peculiar doctrines that has acquired considerable notoriety and exhibits Noyes' views.