Probability in the Philosophy of Religion: introduction

While situating the contribution of the volume within the recent trajectory of philosophy of religion, this chapter highlights the formative role that the notion of probability has exercised on the philosophy of religion in recent times. Tracing a number of key debates from their formulation in the work of David Hume, it looks at the assimilation of probability and confirmation theory within philosophy of religion with reference to five topical areas of the discipline: testimony and miracles; design arguments; the problem of evil; Pascal’s wager; and faith and reason. In doing so, it provides short summaries of each chapter, explaining their context in the wider debates to which they contribute. It concludes with the prediction that probability theory will continue to enjoy a profound influence on the philosophy of religion for some time to come.

ISBN:978-0-19-960476-0

Publication year:2012