On Believing: Being Right in a World of Possibilities

On Believing, by Hunter, argues that belief is not a cause, capacity, or disposition but rather a rationalization of potential reasons. It explores how objective and subjective limits to belief generate credal illusions and ground credal necessities, and defends a modal view against objections. It also argues that voluntary acts of inference make us responsible for our beliefs and that the ethics of belief concern how a believer ought to be positioned in a world of possibilities.

Format: Hardback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 12 April 2022
Publisher: Oxford University Press

On Believing, a book by philosopher Peter Hunter, delves into the intricate realm of belief and its multifaceted aspects. Hunter posits that believing entails being situated in a position to engage in actions, thoughts, and feelings based on the possibility of its realization, which would validate one's beliefs. The logical dimension of belief revolves around the notion that one's rightness solely depends on the actualization of that possibility. However, the psychological aspect becomes crucial as it explores how this possibility can rationalize one's actions, thoughts, and feelings.

Hunter's central contention is that beliefs do not constitute causes, capacities, or dispositions. Rather, they function as rationalizations, drawing upon potential reasons to justify one's beliefs. He challenges the notion that believing is a form of representation, emphasizing that the objects of belief are possibilities rather than representations. Furthermore, belief states themselves are not inherently true or false but rather represent the stance one takes towards these possibilities.

In defending his modal view, Hunter addresses common objections and explores how objective and subjective limits to belief give rise to credal illusions and ground credal necessities. He argues that voluntary acts of inference make us responsible for our beliefs, emphasizing that belief is not intrinsically normative but rather grounded in attributive goodness. Believing something is to our credit when it demonstrates our goodness in some way, and the ethical considerations surrounding belief revolve around how a believer should position themselves within a world of possibilities.

Hunter's book offers a comprehensive exploration of belief, challenging traditional perspectives and providing a fresh framework for understanding the normativity and ethics of belief. Through his insightful arguments and thought-provoking ideas, Hunter invites readers to reevaluate their beliefs and consider the implications of their convictions in a world filled with endless possibilities.

Weight: 528g
Dimension: 241 x 165 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780192859549