Saints, Heretics, and Atheists: A Historical Introduction to the Philosophy of Religion

Saints, Heretics, and Atheists is a historical introduction to fundamental questions in the philosophy of religion, divided into twenty-five chapters by great thinkers from ancient times to the twentieth century. It explores William James' defense of the right to believe and the nature of philosophical progress.

Format: Hardback
Length: 288 pages
Publication date: 09 May 2023
Publisher: Oxford University Press Inc

Saints, Heretics, and Atheists is a comprehensive and engaging exploration of fundamental questions in the philosophy of religion. Spanning from ancient times to the twentieth century, this book is divided into twenty-five concise and chronological chapters, each delving into the philosophies of renowned thinkers such as Plato, Augustine, al-Ghazali, Aquinas, Margarite Porte, Spinoza, Hume, Mary Shepherd, and Nietzche.

The book begins with an historical introduction that provides a backdrop for the discussions that follow. It explores the origins and development of religious belief systems, the challenges faced by different religious traditions, and the evolution of philosophical thought regarding religion.

In the individual chapters, the authors delve into the core concepts and arguments of each philosopher. They examine their views on the nature of God, the existence of evil, the freedom of the human soul, the responsibility of individuals, and the immortality of the soul. The chapters also explore the historical context in which these philosophers lived and the influences that shaped their philosophical ideas.

One of the unique features of Saints, Heretics, and Atheists is its balanced approach to the philosophy of religion. The authors do not promote any particular religious belief system but rather present a comprehensive and objective analysis of different philosophical perspectives. They engage with traditional religious ideas as well as non-traditional and atheistic standpoints, allowing readers to form their own conclusions.

The book concludes with an exploration of William James's defense of the right to believe and the possible limitations of that right. It also examines the nature of philosophical progress and the role that religion plays in shaping it. The authors argue that while religion has played a significant role in human history, it is not the only source of wisdom and morality. They suggest that philosophical inquiry can contribute to our understanding of the world and our place in it, regardless of our religious beliefs.

Saints, Heretics, and Atheists is a valuable resource for anyone interested in the philosophy of religion. It offers a comprehensive and accessible introduction to the key concepts and arguments of ancient and contemporary philosophers, providing readers with a deeper understanding of the complexities of religious belief and the nature of philosophical inquiry. Whether you are a student, scholar, or simply curious about the world, this book will provide you with a wealth of insights and perspectives.

Weight: 548g
Dimension: 163 x 245 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780197563847