Twenty professional philosophers tell how they combine intellectual
rigor with religious commitment. Although most of the great
philosophers have believed in God, argues Morris (Philosophy/Notre
Dame; The Logic of God Incarnate, not reviewed), many Americans
today reckon that religion and reason are diametrically opposed.
With this collection of essays, Morris assembles a cross section of
scholars who effectively challenge this assumption. In brief
chapters, the philosophers touch on themes such as their
upbringing, conversion or religious development, and the ideas and
thinkers who have most influenced them (Immanuel Kant, William
James, and C.S. Lewis are among the most often mentioned). The
general tone, however, is more personal than scholarly. We are
treated to insights into the connection between spiritual life and
the love of learning, as well as discussions of more obvious
philosophical problems such as the nature of objectivity and the
rational grounds required for religious assent. Eleanore Stump
offers a moving account of how confrontation with the problem of
evil can cause us to seek, rather than reject, God. Peter van
Inwagen questions the basic assumptions of the Enlightenment, which
he believes continue to distort our view of religion. David Shatz
speaks of the dual program of Torah and secular studies at New
York's Yeshiva University and of the intense relationship between
religion and study in Orthodox Judaism. Morris lets his authors
speak for themselves, without attempting to draw together what has
been said. Although he provides a broad spectrum of Christian
viewpoints, some readers will regret the absence of Islamic and
Buddhist perspectives and of any discussion of the classical
syntheses of faith and reason, such as that of St. Thomas Aquinas.
The honesty and humanity with which these controversial themes are
treated make for attractive reading. (Kirkus Reviews)
This book offers a series of highly personal, thoughtful essays by traditionally religious philosophers, revealing the power of belief in their intellectually rigorous lives and work.
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