***This RC thinks that Dr. Mohler is closer to the mark. Ad hominem arguments against him can also be used against his master Augustine. His "institutes" deserve to be evaluated in accordance with its merits. Likewise Calvinism. If Anglo-America has an intellectual tradition it is founded on his teachings.***
That's the nicest thing a FR RC has ever said about Calvinism. I think. ;-)
No one can read the "Institutes" without seeing the intellectual power of the man. He took Luther's muddled theology and invested it with great clarity. No wonder Melanchthon was almost won over. The theology of Trent was largely an attempt to address Calvin. Unlike Luther, his thought is universal, an alternative catholicism.