God: Eight Enduring Questions

This book explores philosophical questions about God, such as existence, evil, goodness, hiddenness, ethics, foreknowledge, free will, souls, and reincarnation, presenting arguments and discussing the strengths and weaknesses of theism and its rivals. It is suitable for philosophy of religion and introductory philosophy courses, and professional philosophers will find significant, novel arguments.

Format: Hardback
Length: 310 pages
Publication date: 01 March 2022
Publisher: University of Notre Dame Press

This comprehensive book delves into a diverse array of philosophical topics, exploring their intricate relationship with theism. It examines various perspectives on free will, ethical theories, theories of mind, naturalism, and karma-plus-reincarnation, among other key concepts.

In this insightful and methodical guide, C. Stephen Layman addresses eight crucial philosophical inquiries concerning God. These questions include:

Does God exist?
Why does God permit evil?
Why believe in God's goodness?
Why is God hidden?
What is God's relationship to ethics?
Can divine foreknowledge coexist with human free will?
Do humans possess souls?
Does reincarnation offer the most compelling explanation for suffering?

Layman, with over thirty years of experience in teaching undergraduates and facilitating philosophical discussions related to God, has structured the book to address each of these eight questions in one or two chapters, ensuring a clear and concise presentation.

Throughout the book, Layman presents the arguments with clarity and simplicity, avoiding oversimplification while still providing a comprehensive understanding of the issues. He highlights both the strengths and weaknesses of theism and its metaphysical rivals, fostering a deeper comprehension of these philosophical frameworks.

This book is an invaluable resource for students of philosophy of religion and introductory philosophy courses. It offers a comprehensive exploration of theism and its related concepts, presenting novel arguments that will interest professional philosophers as well. By engaging with the thoughtful discussions and compelling arguments presented in this book, readers will gain a profound and nuanced understanding of the complex interplay between philosophy, theology, and religious belief.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780268202057