PHIL2610 Truth, Reality and God: Themes from the Philosophy of Religion

This topic provides an introduction to philosophical thought about the nature of religious belief. Issues may include: the nature of and arguments for God's existence, the problem of evil, life after death, faith and reason, miracles and naturalistic explanations of religion. Though the focus will be mainly on Judeo-Christian faith there may also be attention to Eastern religions. A distinctive feature of the topic will be the attempt to philosophise with close attention to actual religious texts and practices. Students will be required to ask of philosophical writings: to what extent do they impose philosophical pre-conceptions on religion?

This topic aims to:

• Introduce students to important questions in philosophy of religion
• Equip students to assess intelligently the arguments philosophers have given on those questions

1. Explain the central issues and concepts in philosophy of religion
2. Assess intelligently the philosophical responses to those issues
3. Demonstrate a deepened appreciation of the nature of religion