SlideShare ist ein Scribd-Unternehmen logo
1 von 4
Downloaden Sie, um offline zu lesen
Philosophy of Religion 1
Domenic Marbaniang

PHILOSOPHY OF RELIGION
© Domenic Marbaniang, 2007, 2009

Introduction
‘Philosophy of Religion’ refers to that branch of philosophy that studies the origin, nature, and
purpose of religion from a rational perspective. Philosophy of religion begins with reason at its
foundations. Philosophy of religion is concerned with religion itself, i.e., with themes such as the
existence and nature of God, the knowledge of God, the problem of evil, religious experience,
religious language, salvation, and immortality. It seeks to see whether such themes can be
rationally explained. Both theology of religion and philosophy of religion, thus, constitute two
different ways of approach to the study of religion.
Philosophy of Religion
While theology of religion begins from a particular religious framework, philosophy of religion
approaches religion from a purely rational and secular viewpoint. Philosophy of religion is the
use of the philosophical method to study religion. It is not the study of a particular religious
doctrine, rather is the study of the very nature, value, substance, and truth of religion.
The main themes studied under philosophy of religion are the existence of God, religious view of
man, immortality, the problem of evil, religious experience and mysticism, religious knowledge,
religious language, and religious conversion. Each of these themes is philosophically analyzed to
determine the truth of religion. This section will briefly examine some of these.
1. The Existence of God
The existence of God is a major concern of the philosophy of religion. There are many views
regarding the nature and existence of God, chief of which are polytheism, pantheism, monism,
dualism, and monotheism. When talking of the existence of God, philosophers are mainly
concerned with the monotheistic concept of God as presented in the Bible. The traditional proofs
for the existence of God are three, viz., the ontological argument, the cosmological argument,
and the teleological argument. The ontological argument advanced by St. Anselm contends that
since God is the greatest conceivable being, his existence is necessary; for if He didn’t exist, He
would be equivalent to nothing and anything is greater than nothing, therefore anything would be
greater than Him. However, nothing can be greater than Him because He is the greatest
conceivable being. Therefore, God necessarily exists. The cosmological argument is the
argument from cause and effect. It is based on the assumption that there cannot be an infinite
series of cause-effect relations since that would never be exhaustible making it impossible to
arrive at the present; therefore, the universe must have a cause which is uncaused and this
uncaused cause of the universe is God. The teleological argument is the argument from order and
design in the world. It contends that only the existence of an intelligent designer can explain the
order and design of things in the universe. This intelligent designer, it claims, is God.
Critics have pointed out that the arguments for God’s existence are inadequate explanations. For
instance, Hume pointed out that the cosmological argument is based on the unproven premise
Philosophy of Religion 2
Domenic Marbaniang

that effects follow cause, while the teleological argument at the most can prove that the great
designer is an imperfect being. He argued that polytheism is more easily inferable from the
design argument than monotheism. In his words, ‘‘A great number of men join in building a
house or ship, in rearing a city, in framing a commonwealth; why may not several deities
combine in contriving and framing a world?’ 1 In the same way, Kant saw in the classical
arguments nothing but mental jumbles that disclosed nothing about reality. 2 In fact, Kantian
skepticism doesn’t permit any proof that points beyond phenomena. In recent times, however,
Christian philosophers such as Alvin Platinga have argued that belief of God can be regarded as
a foundational belief that doesn’t even demand a proof, since it is basic. 3
2. Immortality
Immortality refers to the indestructible quality of the human soul. According to Plato, the fact
that all knowledge is recollection is proof that the soul is immortal though the body is mortal. 4
Further, since life is an attribute of the soul, the soul cannot participate in its opposite, viz., death.
Therefore, the soul can never die. Thus, the soul is logically seen to be immortal.
There are others who find in moral justice a ground for the immortality of soul. For, they argue,
if the soul is not immortal, then justice is not guaranteed to all and injustice is elemental to the
universe. The reality of justice demands a life hereafter in which the soul is rewarded good or
evil for the deeds it has done in the body. 5 Different options are present for a philosopher before
he can come to any conclusion by philosophical analysis. The materialistic notion is of
annihilationalism, according to which the soul is coterminous with the body and dies with it.
Reincarnationalism, on the other hand, argues that the body dies but the soul, which never dies,
takes in a new body each time; thus, changing bodies as one changes garment. The Biblical
teaching is of a resurrection in which the wicked will be resurrected to damnation while the
righteous will be resurrected to life and glory. Annihilationalism doesn’t explain the
administration of justice. Reincarnationalism cannot explain how the soul can be eternal and not
just immortal and yet be finite at the same time. The theory of non-dualism attempts to relegate
reincarnation to the deluded Self. However, it fails in adequately explaining how this Self came
to be deluded. The linear aspect of time in the doctrine of resurrection, with its assurance of
justice is the most logical alternative.
3. Religious Experience
Religious experience may be defined as a ‘seeming insight into usually unseen dimensions of
existence, revealing something of intrinsic value and fundamental importance.’6 It can be divided
1

David Hume, “Against the Design Argument”, Philosophy of Religion 2nd edn. (ed. John Hick; Englewood Cliffs: Prentice-Hall,
Inc., 1970), p. 87
2

Immanuel Kant, The Critique of Pure Reason (trans. Norman Kemp Smith; http://www.hkbu.edu.hk/~ppp/cpr/toc.html, 1985),
p. 518
3
Alvin Plantinga, “Religious Belief Without Evidence”, Introduction to Philosophy (ed. Louis P. Pojman; Belmont: Wadsworth
Publishing Company, 1991), p. 264
4
Phaedo in Plato, The Republic and Other Works (trans. B. Jowett; New York: Anchor Books, 1973), pp. 505-511
5
Laxminidhi Sharma, Dharma Darshan Ki Roop Rekha (Allahabad: Abhivyakti Prakashan, 2000), p. 247.
6
13. Religious Experience, Autumn 2003, j.m.webber@sheffield.ac.uk
Philosophy of Religion 3
Domenic Marbaniang

into four kinds: prayer, conversion, mysticism, and near-death experiences. Feeling the presence
of God and receiving answers to prayer is a kind of religious experience. Conviction and insight
are part of the experience of religious conversation which clearly manifests itself in a change of
life. One other important kind of religious experience is mysticism in which one seems to have a
direct intuition of reality. Some people who have experienced the near death tell of some
supernatural experiences that they had when they were near death. Experience of either light or a
dark tunnel feature much in such accounts. All such experiences have been attempted to be
explained physiologically or psychologically. Philosophy acknowledges the fact that these
experiences cannot be challenged by those who have not experienced them; however, it still
remains to trace the logical implications of any beliefs connected with such experiences and to
establish whether there exists any other source of knowledge apart from reason or empirical
experience.
4. Religious Language
Religious language refers to the nature of the language used when talking about God and
supernatural things. Some believe that language is equivocal and that it cannot be used to speak
about God, who can only be spoken about via negative, i.e., by means of negation. Others
believe that words that refer to God and humanity mean the same thing. There are also those who
stress the analogical aspect of religious language, according to whom language in religious
discourse is analogous to language in secular discourse. However, logical positivists like A. J.
Ayer and Rudolph Carnap have argued that all religious language is non-sensical since none of it
is empirically understandable. The criterion of logical positivism, in turn, has been proven to be
non-sensical since it is itself empirically unproven. The best position regarding religious
language seems to be the view of ‘forms of life’ according to which religious language is only
understandable to those who share in the particular form of religious life. To others, such
language might make no sense. As Paul said, ‘the natural man receiveth not the things of the
Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are
spiritually discerned.’7
Thus, philosophy attempts to investigate the metaphysical and epistemological implications of
religious doctrines. It also analyses the aspects of the religious life and experience that carry
philosophical implications.
Conclusion
Philosophy of religion also has an important role to play in the life and ministry of the
theologian. This is so because philosophy gives an overall picture of religious faith, practice, and
experience in general and provides a common tool for evaluation. It helps to make a logical and
rational assessment of the value or demerit of religious beliefs. It also helps one to understand
the source or grounds of certain religious beliefs. However, it must be remembered that there
cannot be a purely unbiased form of philosophy of religion since no one approaches religion with
a blank slate of mind. 8 Yet, philosophy of religion does offer a common ground for dialogue
between world religions. Therefore, philosophy of religion is of great importance to a theologian.
7

1 Corinthians 2: 14

8

Fred Berthold, Jr., The Fear of God (New York: Harper & Brothers Publishers, 1959), p. 105
Philosophy of Religion 4
Domenic Marbaniang

Thus, both theology and philosophy of religion are greatly beneficial to an individual preparing
for or in ministry.
Bibliography
Ames, Edward Scribner. The Psychology of Religious Experience, New York: Houghton Mifflin Company, 1910.
Audi, Robert (Gen.ed.). The Cambridge Dictionary of Philosophy, New York: Cambridge University Press, 1995.
Baillie, John. Our Knowledge of God, London: Oxford University Press, 1952.
Bambrough, Renford. Reason, Truth and God, London: Methuen & Co. Ltd., 1969.
Berthold, Fred Jr. The Fear of God: The Role of Anxiety in Contemporary Thought, New York: Harper & Brothers
Publishers, 1959.
Brierley, J. Religion and Experience, New York: Thomas Whittaker, 1906.
Doniger, Simon. Religion and Human Behavior, New York: Association Press, 1954.
Fowler, James A. Stages of Faith, San Francisco: Harper & Row, Publishers, 1981.
Hegel, Georg Wilhelm Friedrich. Lectures on the Philosophy of Religion, trs. Rev. E. B. Speirs & J. Burdon
Sanderson, Vol. 2, London: Routledge & Kegan Paul, 1962.
James, William. The Varieties of Religious Experiences, New York: Collier Books, 1961.
Kant, Immanuel. Religion Within the Limits of Reason Alone, tr. Theodore M. Greene & New York: Basic Books,
Inc. Publishers, 1963.
Kant, Immanuel. The Critique of Pure Reason, tr. Norman Kemp Smith; http://www.hkbu.edu.hk/~ppp/cpr/toc.html,
1985, 2nd edn.
Mitchel, Basil (ed.). Faith and Logic, London: George Allen & Unwin Ltd., 1958.
Nash, Ronal H. Faith and Reason, Grand Rapids: Zondervan Publishing House, 1988.
Nivedita, Sister. Religion and Dharma, Calcutta: Advaita Ashrama, 1989.
Otto, Rudolf. Mysticism East and West, trs. Bertha L. Bercey & Richena C. Payne, New York: The Macmillan
Company, 1960.
Otto, Rudolf. The Idea of the Holy, tr. John W. Harvey, New York: Galaxy Book, 1958.
Sharma, Laxminidhi. Dharma Darshan Ki Roop Rekha, Allahabad: Abhivyakti Prakashan, 2000.
© Domenic Marbaniang, 2007, 2009

rdsmarb.webs.com

Weitere ähnliche Inhalte

Was ist angesagt?

Philosophy Intro
Philosophy IntroPhilosophy Intro
Philosophy Introdrburwell
 
Modern idealism, hegel
Modern idealism, hegelModern idealism, hegel
Modern idealism, hegelMarni Bunda
 
Jaina philosophy
Jaina philosophyJaina philosophy
Jaina philosophyAjit Singh
 
Religious Studies: Approaches and Insights
Religious Studies: Approaches and InsightsReligious Studies: Approaches and Insights
Religious Studies: Approaches and InsightsWalter Ratliff
 
George wilhelm friedrich hegel
George wilhelm friedrich hegelGeorge wilhelm friedrich hegel
George wilhelm friedrich hegelHaleh Esmailian
 
Jainism and its philosophy
Jainism and its philosophyJainism and its philosophy
Jainism and its philosophyPooja Jain
 
Chapter 6: Religion in Anthropology
Chapter 6: Religion in AnthropologyChapter 6: Religion in Anthropology
Chapter 6: Religion in AnthropologySagar Ibrahim Siyal
 
Human Being are Determined By Baruch Spinoza
Human Being are Determined By Baruch SpinozaHuman Being are Determined By Baruch Spinoza
Human Being are Determined By Baruch SpinozaChristArdhi
 
Positivism Power Point
Positivism Power PointPositivism Power Point
Positivism Power Pointwswitala
 
Lecture 4. Medieval philosophy.ppt
Lecture 4. Medieval philosophy.pptLecture 4. Medieval philosophy.ppt
Lecture 4. Medieval philosophy.pptMayankMittal213356
 
Aristotle MetaPhysics
Aristotle MetaPhysicsAristotle MetaPhysics
Aristotle MetaPhysicsguest3e05bdd
 
John Locke theory of knowledge
John Locke theory of knowledgeJohn Locke theory of knowledge
John Locke theory of knowledgeAli Furqan Syed
 
Perception 2016 revision 3. idealism
Perception 2016 revision 3. idealismPerception 2016 revision 3. idealism
Perception 2016 revision 3. idealismJon Bradshaw
 
2 Major fields of philosophy METAPHYSICS AND EPISTEMOLOGY ONLY
2 Major fields of philosophy METAPHYSICS AND EPISTEMOLOGY ONLY2 Major fields of philosophy METAPHYSICS AND EPISTEMOLOGY ONLY
2 Major fields of philosophy METAPHYSICS AND EPISTEMOLOGY ONLYApril Centes
 
History of Western modern Philosophy
History of Western modern PhilosophyHistory of Western modern Philosophy
History of Western modern PhilosophySyed Noman Ali
 

Was ist angesagt? (20)

Philosophy Intro
Philosophy IntroPhilosophy Intro
Philosophy Intro
 
Modern idealism, hegel
Modern idealism, hegelModern idealism, hegel
Modern idealism, hegel
 
Jaina philosophy
Jaina philosophyJaina philosophy
Jaina philosophy
 
Religious Studies: Approaches and Insights
Religious Studies: Approaches and InsightsReligious Studies: Approaches and Insights
Religious Studies: Approaches and Insights
 
George wilhelm friedrich hegel
George wilhelm friedrich hegelGeorge wilhelm friedrich hegel
George wilhelm friedrich hegel
 
Jainism and its philosophy
Jainism and its philosophyJainism and its philosophy
Jainism and its philosophy
 
Buddhist philosophy ppt
Buddhist philosophy pptBuddhist philosophy ppt
Buddhist philosophy ppt
 
Chapter 6: Religion in Anthropology
Chapter 6: Religion in AnthropologyChapter 6: Religion in Anthropology
Chapter 6: Religion in Anthropology
 
Human Being are Determined By Baruch Spinoza
Human Being are Determined By Baruch SpinozaHuman Being are Determined By Baruch Spinoza
Human Being are Determined By Baruch Spinoza
 
Secularism
SecularismSecularism
Secularism
 
What is Atheism?
What is Atheism?What is Atheism?
What is Atheism?
 
Positivism Power Point
Positivism Power PointPositivism Power Point
Positivism Power Point
 
SPINOZA'S PHILOSOPHY
SPINOZA'S PHILOSOPHYSPINOZA'S PHILOSOPHY
SPINOZA'S PHILOSOPHY
 
Lecture 4. Medieval philosophy.ppt
Lecture 4. Medieval philosophy.pptLecture 4. Medieval philosophy.ppt
Lecture 4. Medieval philosophy.ppt
 
Greek philosophy
Greek philosophyGreek philosophy
Greek philosophy
 
Aristotle MetaPhysics
Aristotle MetaPhysicsAristotle MetaPhysics
Aristotle MetaPhysics
 
John Locke theory of knowledge
John Locke theory of knowledgeJohn Locke theory of knowledge
John Locke theory of knowledge
 
Perception 2016 revision 3. idealism
Perception 2016 revision 3. idealismPerception 2016 revision 3. idealism
Perception 2016 revision 3. idealism
 
2 Major fields of philosophy METAPHYSICS AND EPISTEMOLOGY ONLY
2 Major fields of philosophy METAPHYSICS AND EPISTEMOLOGY ONLY2 Major fields of philosophy METAPHYSICS AND EPISTEMOLOGY ONLY
2 Major fields of philosophy METAPHYSICS AND EPISTEMOLOGY ONLY
 
History of Western modern Philosophy
History of Western modern PhilosophyHistory of Western modern Philosophy
History of Western modern Philosophy
 

Ähnlich wie Philosophy of religion

A Primer on the Philosophy of Religion and the Problem of God's Existence
A Primer on the Philosophy of Religion and the Problem of God's ExistenceA Primer on the Philosophy of Religion and the Problem of God's Existence
A Primer on the Philosophy of Religion and the Problem of God's ExistenceNoel Jopson
 
Theological Foundations part 1
Theological Foundations part 1Theological Foundations part 1
Theological Foundations part 1Steve Thomason
 
THE CHALLENGE FOR MODERN-DAY UNITARIANS AND UNIVERSALISTS: RECLAIMING THE SAC...
THE CHALLENGE FOR MODERN-DAY UNITARIANS AND UNIVERSALISTS: RECLAIMING THE SAC...THE CHALLENGE FOR MODERN-DAY UNITARIANS AND UNIVERSALISTS: RECLAIMING THE SAC...
THE CHALLENGE FOR MODERN-DAY UNITARIANS AND UNIVERSALISTS: RECLAIMING THE SAC...Dr Ian Ellis-Jones
 
Topic 9 existence of god
Topic 9 existence of godTopic 9 existence of god
Topic 9 existence of goddan_maribao
 
Topic 9 existence of god
Topic 9 existence of godTopic 9 existence of god
Topic 9 existence of goddan_maribao
 
Understanding Religion
Understanding ReligionUnderstanding Religion
Understanding Religionppower47
 
Idealism in philosophy of education
Idealism in philosophy of educationIdealism in philosophy of education
Idealism in philosophy of educationLee Vhay Yin
 
Viewing religions philosophically
Viewing religions philosophicallyViewing religions philosophically
Viewing religions philosophicallyDomenic Marbaniang
 

Ähnlich wie Philosophy of religion (14)

A Primer on the Philosophy of Religion and the Problem of God's Existence
A Primer on the Philosophy of Religion and the Problem of God's ExistenceA Primer on the Philosophy of Religion and the Problem of God's Existence
A Primer on the Philosophy of Religion and the Problem of God's Existence
 
Theological Foundations part 1
Theological Foundations part 1Theological Foundations part 1
Theological Foundations part 1
 
THE CHALLENGE FOR MODERN-DAY UNITARIANS AND UNIVERSALISTS: RECLAIMING THE SAC...
THE CHALLENGE FOR MODERN-DAY UNITARIANS AND UNIVERSALISTS: RECLAIMING THE SAC...THE CHALLENGE FOR MODERN-DAY UNITARIANS AND UNIVERSALISTS: RECLAIMING THE SAC...
THE CHALLENGE FOR MODERN-DAY UNITARIANS AND UNIVERSALISTS: RECLAIMING THE SAC...
 
Topic 9 existence of god
Topic 9 existence of godTopic 9 existence of god
Topic 9 existence of god
 
Exploring theosophy
Exploring theosophyExploring theosophy
Exploring theosophy
 
Topic 9 existence of god
Topic 9 existence of godTopic 9 existence of god
Topic 9 existence of god
 
Understanding Religion
Understanding ReligionUnderstanding Religion
Understanding Religion
 
IWRB-REPORT-FINAL.ppsx
IWRB-REPORT-FINAL.ppsxIWRB-REPORT-FINAL.ppsx
IWRB-REPORT-FINAL.ppsx
 
Idealism in philosophy of education
Idealism in philosophy of educationIdealism in philosophy of education
Idealism in philosophy of education
 
Philo106 final paper
Philo106 final paperPhilo106 final paper
Philo106 final paper
 
Viewing religions philosophically
Viewing religions philosophicallyViewing religions philosophically
Viewing religions philosophically
 
Chapter 8
Chapter 8Chapter 8
Chapter 8
 
Does God really Exists?
Does God really Exists?Does God really Exists?
Does God really Exists?
 
Psychology of Religion
Psychology of ReligionPsychology of Religion
Psychology of Religion
 

Mehr von Domenic Marbaniang

Calling and Preparation of a Theological Teacher
Calling and Preparation of a Theological TeacherCalling and Preparation of a Theological Teacher
Calling and Preparation of a Theological TeacherDomenic Marbaniang
 
Christology - Introduction (English - Chinese)
Christology - Introduction (English - Chinese)Christology - Introduction (English - Chinese)
Christology - Introduction (English - Chinese)Domenic Marbaniang
 
Christology -Priesthood of Christ (English - Chinese)
Christology  -Priesthood of Christ (English - Chinese)Christology  -Priesthood of Christ (English - Chinese)
Christology -Priesthood of Christ (English - Chinese)Domenic Marbaniang
 
Heavenly priesthood (English - Chinese)
Heavenly priesthood (English - Chinese)Heavenly priesthood (English - Chinese)
Heavenly priesthood (English - Chinese)Domenic Marbaniang
 
Priesthood of christ (English - Chinese)
Priesthood of christ (English - Chinese)Priesthood of christ (English - Chinese)
Priesthood of christ (English - Chinese)Domenic Marbaniang
 
Contemporary theologies (English - Chinese)
Contemporary theologies (English - Chinese)Contemporary theologies (English - Chinese)
Contemporary theologies (English - Chinese)Domenic Marbaniang
 
A greater priesthood (English - Chinese)
A greater priesthood (English - Chinese)A greater priesthood (English - Chinese)
A greater priesthood (English - Chinese)Domenic Marbaniang
 
Abrahamic covenant (English - Chinese)
Abrahamic covenant (English - Chinese)Abrahamic covenant (English - Chinese)
Abrahamic covenant (English - Chinese)Domenic Marbaniang
 
Adamic Covenant (English - Chinese)
Adamic Covenant (English - Chinese)Adamic Covenant (English - Chinese)
Adamic Covenant (English - Chinese)Domenic Marbaniang
 
Edenic covenant (English - Chinese)
Edenic covenant (English - Chinese)Edenic covenant (English - Chinese)
Edenic covenant (English - Chinese)Domenic Marbaniang
 
Edenic covenant (English - Chinese)
Edenic covenant (English - Chinese)Edenic covenant (English - Chinese)
Edenic covenant (English - Chinese)Domenic Marbaniang
 
Palestinian covenant (English - Chinese)
Palestinian covenant  (English - Chinese)Palestinian covenant  (English - Chinese)
Palestinian covenant (English - Chinese)Domenic Marbaniang
 
Davidic covenant (English - Chinese)
Davidic covenant (English - Chinese)Davidic covenant (English - Chinese)
Davidic covenant (English - Chinese)Domenic Marbaniang
 
Covenants - Introduction (English - Chinese)
Covenants - Introduction (English - Chinese)Covenants - Introduction (English - Chinese)
Covenants - Introduction (English - Chinese)Domenic Marbaniang
 

Mehr von Domenic Marbaniang (20)

Epistemology and Formal Logic
Epistemology and Formal LogicEpistemology and Formal Logic
Epistemology and Formal Logic
 
Some informal fallacies
Some informal fallaciesSome informal fallacies
Some informal fallacies
 
Calling and Preparation of a Theological Teacher
Calling and Preparation of a Theological TeacherCalling and Preparation of a Theological Teacher
Calling and Preparation of a Theological Teacher
 
Family leadership
Family leadershipFamily leadership
Family leadership
 
Christology - Introduction (English - Chinese)
Christology - Introduction (English - Chinese)Christology - Introduction (English - Chinese)
Christology - Introduction (English - Chinese)
 
Christology -Priesthood of Christ (English - Chinese)
Christology  -Priesthood of Christ (English - Chinese)Christology  -Priesthood of Christ (English - Chinese)
Christology -Priesthood of Christ (English - Chinese)
 
Heavenly priesthood (English - Chinese)
Heavenly priesthood (English - Chinese)Heavenly priesthood (English - Chinese)
Heavenly priesthood (English - Chinese)
 
Priesthood of christ (English - Chinese)
Priesthood of christ (English - Chinese)Priesthood of christ (English - Chinese)
Priesthood of christ (English - Chinese)
 
Contemporary theologies (English - Chinese)
Contemporary theologies (English - Chinese)Contemporary theologies (English - Chinese)
Contemporary theologies (English - Chinese)
 
A greater priesthood (English - Chinese)
A greater priesthood (English - Chinese)A greater priesthood (English - Chinese)
A greater priesthood (English - Chinese)
 
Abrahamic covenant (English - Chinese)
Abrahamic covenant (English - Chinese)Abrahamic covenant (English - Chinese)
Abrahamic covenant (English - Chinese)
 
Adamic Covenant (English - Chinese)
Adamic Covenant (English - Chinese)Adamic Covenant (English - Chinese)
Adamic Covenant (English - Chinese)
 
Edenic covenant (English - Chinese)
Edenic covenant (English - Chinese)Edenic covenant (English - Chinese)
Edenic covenant (English - Chinese)
 
Edenic covenant (English - Chinese)
Edenic covenant (English - Chinese)Edenic covenant (English - Chinese)
Edenic covenant (English - Chinese)
 
Palestinian covenant (English - Chinese)
Palestinian covenant  (English - Chinese)Palestinian covenant  (English - Chinese)
Palestinian covenant (English - Chinese)
 
Davidic covenant (English - Chinese)
Davidic covenant (English - Chinese)Davidic covenant (English - Chinese)
Davidic covenant (English - Chinese)
 
New covenant
New covenantNew covenant
New covenant
 
Covenants (English - Chinese)
Covenants (English - Chinese)Covenants (English - Chinese)
Covenants (English - Chinese)
 
The noahic covenant.pptx
The noahic covenant.pptxThe noahic covenant.pptx
The noahic covenant.pptx
 
Covenants - Introduction (English - Chinese)
Covenants - Introduction (English - Chinese)Covenants - Introduction (English - Chinese)
Covenants - Introduction (English - Chinese)
 

Kürzlich hochgeladen

INTRODUCTION TO CATHOLIC CHRISTOLOGY.pptx
INTRODUCTION TO CATHOLIC CHRISTOLOGY.pptxINTRODUCTION TO CATHOLIC CHRISTOLOGY.pptx
INTRODUCTION TO CATHOLIC CHRISTOLOGY.pptxHumphrey A Beña
 
AMERICAN LANGUAGE HUB_Level2_Student'sBook_Answerkey.pdf
AMERICAN LANGUAGE HUB_Level2_Student'sBook_Answerkey.pdfAMERICAN LANGUAGE HUB_Level2_Student'sBook_Answerkey.pdf
AMERICAN LANGUAGE HUB_Level2_Student'sBook_Answerkey.pdfphamnguyenenglishnb
 
How to Add Barcode on PDF Report in Odoo 17
How to Add Barcode on PDF Report in Odoo 17How to Add Barcode on PDF Report in Odoo 17
How to Add Barcode on PDF Report in Odoo 17Celine George
 
DATA STRUCTURE AND ALGORITHM for beginners
DATA STRUCTURE AND ALGORITHM for beginnersDATA STRUCTURE AND ALGORITHM for beginners
DATA STRUCTURE AND ALGORITHM for beginnersSabitha Banu
 
GRADE 4 - SUMMATIVE TEST QUARTER 4 ALL SUBJECTS
GRADE 4 - SUMMATIVE TEST QUARTER 4 ALL SUBJECTSGRADE 4 - SUMMATIVE TEST QUARTER 4 ALL SUBJECTS
GRADE 4 - SUMMATIVE TEST QUARTER 4 ALL SUBJECTSJoshuaGantuangco2
 
Earth Day Presentation wow hello nice great
Earth Day Presentation wow hello nice greatEarth Day Presentation wow hello nice great
Earth Day Presentation wow hello nice greatYousafMalik24
 
Difference Between Search & Browse Methods in Odoo 17
Difference Between Search & Browse Methods in Odoo 17Difference Between Search & Browse Methods in Odoo 17
Difference Between Search & Browse Methods in Odoo 17Celine George
 
Q4 English4 Week3 PPT Melcnmg-based.pptx
Q4 English4 Week3 PPT Melcnmg-based.pptxQ4 English4 Week3 PPT Melcnmg-based.pptx
Q4 English4 Week3 PPT Melcnmg-based.pptxnelietumpap1
 
ACC 2024 Chronicles. Cardiology. Exam.pdf
ACC 2024 Chronicles. Cardiology. Exam.pdfACC 2024 Chronicles. Cardiology. Exam.pdf
ACC 2024 Chronicles. Cardiology. Exam.pdfSpandanaRallapalli
 
Grade 9 Q4-MELC1-Active and Passive Voice.pptx
Grade 9 Q4-MELC1-Active and Passive Voice.pptxGrade 9 Q4-MELC1-Active and Passive Voice.pptx
Grade 9 Q4-MELC1-Active and Passive Voice.pptxChelloAnnAsuncion2
 
Keynote by Prof. Wurzer at Nordex about IP-design
Keynote by Prof. Wurzer at Nordex about IP-designKeynote by Prof. Wurzer at Nordex about IP-design
Keynote by Prof. Wurzer at Nordex about IP-designMIPLM
 
Incoming and Outgoing Shipments in 3 STEPS Using Odoo 17
Incoming and Outgoing Shipments in 3 STEPS Using Odoo 17Incoming and Outgoing Shipments in 3 STEPS Using Odoo 17
Incoming and Outgoing Shipments in 3 STEPS Using Odoo 17Celine George
 
ANG SEKTOR NG agrikultura.pptx QUARTER 4
ANG SEKTOR NG agrikultura.pptx QUARTER 4ANG SEKTOR NG agrikultura.pptx QUARTER 4
ANG SEKTOR NG agrikultura.pptx QUARTER 4MiaBumagat1
 
USPS® Forced Meter Migration - How to Know if Your Postage Meter Will Soon be...
USPS® Forced Meter Migration - How to Know if Your Postage Meter Will Soon be...USPS® Forced Meter Migration - How to Know if Your Postage Meter Will Soon be...
USPS® Forced Meter Migration - How to Know if Your Postage Meter Will Soon be...Postal Advocate Inc.
 
Science 7 Quarter 4 Module 2: Natural Resources.pptx
Science 7 Quarter 4 Module 2: Natural Resources.pptxScience 7 Quarter 4 Module 2: Natural Resources.pptx
Science 7 Quarter 4 Module 2: Natural Resources.pptxMaryGraceBautista27
 

Kürzlich hochgeladen (20)

INTRODUCTION TO CATHOLIC CHRISTOLOGY.pptx
INTRODUCTION TO CATHOLIC CHRISTOLOGY.pptxINTRODUCTION TO CATHOLIC CHRISTOLOGY.pptx
INTRODUCTION TO CATHOLIC CHRISTOLOGY.pptx
 
AMERICAN LANGUAGE HUB_Level2_Student'sBook_Answerkey.pdf
AMERICAN LANGUAGE HUB_Level2_Student'sBook_Answerkey.pdfAMERICAN LANGUAGE HUB_Level2_Student'sBook_Answerkey.pdf
AMERICAN LANGUAGE HUB_Level2_Student'sBook_Answerkey.pdf
 
How to Add Barcode on PDF Report in Odoo 17
How to Add Barcode on PDF Report in Odoo 17How to Add Barcode on PDF Report in Odoo 17
How to Add Barcode on PDF Report in Odoo 17
 
YOUVE_GOT_EMAIL_PRELIMS_EL_DORADO_2024.pptx
YOUVE_GOT_EMAIL_PRELIMS_EL_DORADO_2024.pptxYOUVE_GOT_EMAIL_PRELIMS_EL_DORADO_2024.pptx
YOUVE_GOT_EMAIL_PRELIMS_EL_DORADO_2024.pptx
 
Raw materials used in Herbal Cosmetics.pptx
Raw materials used in Herbal Cosmetics.pptxRaw materials used in Herbal Cosmetics.pptx
Raw materials used in Herbal Cosmetics.pptx
 
DATA STRUCTURE AND ALGORITHM for beginners
DATA STRUCTURE AND ALGORITHM for beginnersDATA STRUCTURE AND ALGORITHM for beginners
DATA STRUCTURE AND ALGORITHM for beginners
 
GRADE 4 - SUMMATIVE TEST QUARTER 4 ALL SUBJECTS
GRADE 4 - SUMMATIVE TEST QUARTER 4 ALL SUBJECTSGRADE 4 - SUMMATIVE TEST QUARTER 4 ALL SUBJECTS
GRADE 4 - SUMMATIVE TEST QUARTER 4 ALL SUBJECTS
 
Earth Day Presentation wow hello nice great
Earth Day Presentation wow hello nice greatEarth Day Presentation wow hello nice great
Earth Day Presentation wow hello nice great
 
Difference Between Search & Browse Methods in Odoo 17
Difference Between Search & Browse Methods in Odoo 17Difference Between Search & Browse Methods in Odoo 17
Difference Between Search & Browse Methods in Odoo 17
 
Q4 English4 Week3 PPT Melcnmg-based.pptx
Q4 English4 Week3 PPT Melcnmg-based.pptxQ4 English4 Week3 PPT Melcnmg-based.pptx
Q4 English4 Week3 PPT Melcnmg-based.pptx
 
ACC 2024 Chronicles. Cardiology. Exam.pdf
ACC 2024 Chronicles. Cardiology. Exam.pdfACC 2024 Chronicles. Cardiology. Exam.pdf
ACC 2024 Chronicles. Cardiology. Exam.pdf
 
FINALS_OF_LEFT_ON_C'N_EL_DORADO_2024.pptx
FINALS_OF_LEFT_ON_C'N_EL_DORADO_2024.pptxFINALS_OF_LEFT_ON_C'N_EL_DORADO_2024.pptx
FINALS_OF_LEFT_ON_C'N_EL_DORADO_2024.pptx
 
LEFT_ON_C'N_ PRELIMS_EL_DORADO_2024.pptx
LEFT_ON_C'N_ PRELIMS_EL_DORADO_2024.pptxLEFT_ON_C'N_ PRELIMS_EL_DORADO_2024.pptx
LEFT_ON_C'N_ PRELIMS_EL_DORADO_2024.pptx
 
YOUVE GOT EMAIL_FINALS_EL_DORADO_2024.pptx
YOUVE GOT EMAIL_FINALS_EL_DORADO_2024.pptxYOUVE GOT EMAIL_FINALS_EL_DORADO_2024.pptx
YOUVE GOT EMAIL_FINALS_EL_DORADO_2024.pptx
 
Grade 9 Q4-MELC1-Active and Passive Voice.pptx
Grade 9 Q4-MELC1-Active and Passive Voice.pptxGrade 9 Q4-MELC1-Active and Passive Voice.pptx
Grade 9 Q4-MELC1-Active and Passive Voice.pptx
 
Keynote by Prof. Wurzer at Nordex about IP-design
Keynote by Prof. Wurzer at Nordex about IP-designKeynote by Prof. Wurzer at Nordex about IP-design
Keynote by Prof. Wurzer at Nordex about IP-design
 
Incoming and Outgoing Shipments in 3 STEPS Using Odoo 17
Incoming and Outgoing Shipments in 3 STEPS Using Odoo 17Incoming and Outgoing Shipments in 3 STEPS Using Odoo 17
Incoming and Outgoing Shipments in 3 STEPS Using Odoo 17
 
ANG SEKTOR NG agrikultura.pptx QUARTER 4
ANG SEKTOR NG agrikultura.pptx QUARTER 4ANG SEKTOR NG agrikultura.pptx QUARTER 4
ANG SEKTOR NG agrikultura.pptx QUARTER 4
 
USPS® Forced Meter Migration - How to Know if Your Postage Meter Will Soon be...
USPS® Forced Meter Migration - How to Know if Your Postage Meter Will Soon be...USPS® Forced Meter Migration - How to Know if Your Postage Meter Will Soon be...
USPS® Forced Meter Migration - How to Know if Your Postage Meter Will Soon be...
 
Science 7 Quarter 4 Module 2: Natural Resources.pptx
Science 7 Quarter 4 Module 2: Natural Resources.pptxScience 7 Quarter 4 Module 2: Natural Resources.pptx
Science 7 Quarter 4 Module 2: Natural Resources.pptx
 

Philosophy of religion

  • 1. Philosophy of Religion 1 Domenic Marbaniang PHILOSOPHY OF RELIGION © Domenic Marbaniang, 2007, 2009 Introduction ‘Philosophy of Religion’ refers to that branch of philosophy that studies the origin, nature, and purpose of religion from a rational perspective. Philosophy of religion begins with reason at its foundations. Philosophy of religion is concerned with religion itself, i.e., with themes such as the existence and nature of God, the knowledge of God, the problem of evil, religious experience, religious language, salvation, and immortality. It seeks to see whether such themes can be rationally explained. Both theology of religion and philosophy of religion, thus, constitute two different ways of approach to the study of religion. Philosophy of Religion While theology of religion begins from a particular religious framework, philosophy of religion approaches religion from a purely rational and secular viewpoint. Philosophy of religion is the use of the philosophical method to study religion. It is not the study of a particular religious doctrine, rather is the study of the very nature, value, substance, and truth of religion. The main themes studied under philosophy of religion are the existence of God, religious view of man, immortality, the problem of evil, religious experience and mysticism, religious knowledge, religious language, and religious conversion. Each of these themes is philosophically analyzed to determine the truth of religion. This section will briefly examine some of these. 1. The Existence of God The existence of God is a major concern of the philosophy of religion. There are many views regarding the nature and existence of God, chief of which are polytheism, pantheism, monism, dualism, and monotheism. When talking of the existence of God, philosophers are mainly concerned with the monotheistic concept of God as presented in the Bible. The traditional proofs for the existence of God are three, viz., the ontological argument, the cosmological argument, and the teleological argument. The ontological argument advanced by St. Anselm contends that since God is the greatest conceivable being, his existence is necessary; for if He didn’t exist, He would be equivalent to nothing and anything is greater than nothing, therefore anything would be greater than Him. However, nothing can be greater than Him because He is the greatest conceivable being. Therefore, God necessarily exists. The cosmological argument is the argument from cause and effect. It is based on the assumption that there cannot be an infinite series of cause-effect relations since that would never be exhaustible making it impossible to arrive at the present; therefore, the universe must have a cause which is uncaused and this uncaused cause of the universe is God. The teleological argument is the argument from order and design in the world. It contends that only the existence of an intelligent designer can explain the order and design of things in the universe. This intelligent designer, it claims, is God. Critics have pointed out that the arguments for God’s existence are inadequate explanations. For instance, Hume pointed out that the cosmological argument is based on the unproven premise
  • 2. Philosophy of Religion 2 Domenic Marbaniang that effects follow cause, while the teleological argument at the most can prove that the great designer is an imperfect being. He argued that polytheism is more easily inferable from the design argument than monotheism. In his words, ‘‘A great number of men join in building a house or ship, in rearing a city, in framing a commonwealth; why may not several deities combine in contriving and framing a world?’ 1 In the same way, Kant saw in the classical arguments nothing but mental jumbles that disclosed nothing about reality. 2 In fact, Kantian skepticism doesn’t permit any proof that points beyond phenomena. In recent times, however, Christian philosophers such as Alvin Platinga have argued that belief of God can be regarded as a foundational belief that doesn’t even demand a proof, since it is basic. 3 2. Immortality Immortality refers to the indestructible quality of the human soul. According to Plato, the fact that all knowledge is recollection is proof that the soul is immortal though the body is mortal. 4 Further, since life is an attribute of the soul, the soul cannot participate in its opposite, viz., death. Therefore, the soul can never die. Thus, the soul is logically seen to be immortal. There are others who find in moral justice a ground for the immortality of soul. For, they argue, if the soul is not immortal, then justice is not guaranteed to all and injustice is elemental to the universe. The reality of justice demands a life hereafter in which the soul is rewarded good or evil for the deeds it has done in the body. 5 Different options are present for a philosopher before he can come to any conclusion by philosophical analysis. The materialistic notion is of annihilationalism, according to which the soul is coterminous with the body and dies with it. Reincarnationalism, on the other hand, argues that the body dies but the soul, which never dies, takes in a new body each time; thus, changing bodies as one changes garment. The Biblical teaching is of a resurrection in which the wicked will be resurrected to damnation while the righteous will be resurrected to life and glory. Annihilationalism doesn’t explain the administration of justice. Reincarnationalism cannot explain how the soul can be eternal and not just immortal and yet be finite at the same time. The theory of non-dualism attempts to relegate reincarnation to the deluded Self. However, it fails in adequately explaining how this Self came to be deluded. The linear aspect of time in the doctrine of resurrection, with its assurance of justice is the most logical alternative. 3. Religious Experience Religious experience may be defined as a ‘seeming insight into usually unseen dimensions of existence, revealing something of intrinsic value and fundamental importance.’6 It can be divided 1 David Hume, “Against the Design Argument”, Philosophy of Religion 2nd edn. (ed. John Hick; Englewood Cliffs: Prentice-Hall, Inc., 1970), p. 87 2 Immanuel Kant, The Critique of Pure Reason (trans. Norman Kemp Smith; http://www.hkbu.edu.hk/~ppp/cpr/toc.html, 1985), p. 518 3 Alvin Plantinga, “Religious Belief Without Evidence”, Introduction to Philosophy (ed. Louis P. Pojman; Belmont: Wadsworth Publishing Company, 1991), p. 264 4 Phaedo in Plato, The Republic and Other Works (trans. B. Jowett; New York: Anchor Books, 1973), pp. 505-511 5 Laxminidhi Sharma, Dharma Darshan Ki Roop Rekha (Allahabad: Abhivyakti Prakashan, 2000), p. 247. 6 13. Religious Experience, Autumn 2003, j.m.webber@sheffield.ac.uk
  • 3. Philosophy of Religion 3 Domenic Marbaniang into four kinds: prayer, conversion, mysticism, and near-death experiences. Feeling the presence of God and receiving answers to prayer is a kind of religious experience. Conviction and insight are part of the experience of religious conversation which clearly manifests itself in a change of life. One other important kind of religious experience is mysticism in which one seems to have a direct intuition of reality. Some people who have experienced the near death tell of some supernatural experiences that they had when they were near death. Experience of either light or a dark tunnel feature much in such accounts. All such experiences have been attempted to be explained physiologically or psychologically. Philosophy acknowledges the fact that these experiences cannot be challenged by those who have not experienced them; however, it still remains to trace the logical implications of any beliefs connected with such experiences and to establish whether there exists any other source of knowledge apart from reason or empirical experience. 4. Religious Language Religious language refers to the nature of the language used when talking about God and supernatural things. Some believe that language is equivocal and that it cannot be used to speak about God, who can only be spoken about via negative, i.e., by means of negation. Others believe that words that refer to God and humanity mean the same thing. There are also those who stress the analogical aspect of religious language, according to whom language in religious discourse is analogous to language in secular discourse. However, logical positivists like A. J. Ayer and Rudolph Carnap have argued that all religious language is non-sensical since none of it is empirically understandable. The criterion of logical positivism, in turn, has been proven to be non-sensical since it is itself empirically unproven. The best position regarding religious language seems to be the view of ‘forms of life’ according to which religious language is only understandable to those who share in the particular form of religious life. To others, such language might make no sense. As Paul said, ‘the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.’7 Thus, philosophy attempts to investigate the metaphysical and epistemological implications of religious doctrines. It also analyses the aspects of the religious life and experience that carry philosophical implications. Conclusion Philosophy of religion also has an important role to play in the life and ministry of the theologian. This is so because philosophy gives an overall picture of religious faith, practice, and experience in general and provides a common tool for evaluation. It helps to make a logical and rational assessment of the value or demerit of religious beliefs. It also helps one to understand the source or grounds of certain religious beliefs. However, it must be remembered that there cannot be a purely unbiased form of philosophy of religion since no one approaches religion with a blank slate of mind. 8 Yet, philosophy of religion does offer a common ground for dialogue between world religions. Therefore, philosophy of religion is of great importance to a theologian. 7 1 Corinthians 2: 14 8 Fred Berthold, Jr., The Fear of God (New York: Harper & Brothers Publishers, 1959), p. 105
  • 4. Philosophy of Religion 4 Domenic Marbaniang Thus, both theology and philosophy of religion are greatly beneficial to an individual preparing for or in ministry. Bibliography Ames, Edward Scribner. The Psychology of Religious Experience, New York: Houghton Mifflin Company, 1910. Audi, Robert (Gen.ed.). The Cambridge Dictionary of Philosophy, New York: Cambridge University Press, 1995. Baillie, John. Our Knowledge of God, London: Oxford University Press, 1952. Bambrough, Renford. Reason, Truth and God, London: Methuen & Co. Ltd., 1969. Berthold, Fred Jr. The Fear of God: The Role of Anxiety in Contemporary Thought, New York: Harper & Brothers Publishers, 1959. Brierley, J. Religion and Experience, New York: Thomas Whittaker, 1906. Doniger, Simon. Religion and Human Behavior, New York: Association Press, 1954. Fowler, James A. Stages of Faith, San Francisco: Harper & Row, Publishers, 1981. Hegel, Georg Wilhelm Friedrich. Lectures on the Philosophy of Religion, trs. Rev. E. B. Speirs & J. Burdon Sanderson, Vol. 2, London: Routledge & Kegan Paul, 1962. James, William. The Varieties of Religious Experiences, New York: Collier Books, 1961. Kant, Immanuel. Religion Within the Limits of Reason Alone, tr. Theodore M. Greene & New York: Basic Books, Inc. Publishers, 1963. Kant, Immanuel. The Critique of Pure Reason, tr. Norman Kemp Smith; http://www.hkbu.edu.hk/~ppp/cpr/toc.html, 1985, 2nd edn. Mitchel, Basil (ed.). Faith and Logic, London: George Allen & Unwin Ltd., 1958. Nash, Ronal H. Faith and Reason, Grand Rapids: Zondervan Publishing House, 1988. Nivedita, Sister. Religion and Dharma, Calcutta: Advaita Ashrama, 1989. Otto, Rudolf. Mysticism East and West, trs. Bertha L. Bercey & Richena C. Payne, New York: The Macmillan Company, 1960. Otto, Rudolf. The Idea of the Holy, tr. John W. Harvey, New York: Galaxy Book, 1958. Sharma, Laxminidhi. Dharma Darshan Ki Roop Rekha, Allahabad: Abhivyakti Prakashan, 2000. © Domenic Marbaniang, 2007, 2009 rdsmarb.webs.com