Study Guide: Lesson 16
Philosophy of Religion: Introduction

Lesson Overview:

With this lesson, we begin our unit on philosophy of religion. Religious questions are among the most important for the vast majority of persons: Is there a God? Is there an afterlife? Why does God allow evil and suffering? How can we know God? Are miracles possible? What is the relation between faith and reason? In this first lesson, we explore exactly how philosophy and religion relate to each other. Can we objectively explore religion from a philosophical vantage point? We will critically examine 2 extreme answers to this question and then arrive at a proposed way that religious beliefs can be philosophically investigated.

Tasks:

Read chapter. 1 of Philosophy of Religion: Thinking About Faith, “What is Philosophy of Religion?” As you read, make sure you understand the following points and questions:

* Explain the distinctions between philosophy of religion and sociology, history, theology, and religious philosophy. * Explain the arguments for and problems with fideism. * What 2 factors do Evans and Manis raise in answering the fideist claim that critical reflection about religious beliefs is arrogant and presumptuous? * According to Evans and Manis, is it possible to be completely neutral, and is it valid? * How is critical dialog a balance between fideism and neutralism? * What are some criteria for testing basic religious beliefs, suggested in Evans and Manis’ concept of critical dialog?

Terms:

Make sure you fully understand the following terms and concepts:

* Philosophy of Religion * Natural Theology * Religious Philosophy * Fideism * Neutralism | * Foundationalism * Strong Foundationalism * Weak Foundationalism * Critical Dialog