While there are numerous arguments for the existence of God, most believers accept theism independent of sophisticated arguments and evidence. Are these theists irrational? In this episode, Zach discusses the idea of Reformed Epistemology developed by Alvin Plantinga who argues Christian believers can be warranted independent of evidence.
The core thesis is that while some beliefs require external evidence, a large number of beliefs are properly basic, that is to say, rationally acquired without evidence (consider your own existence as an example). Plantinga argues that if the Christian story is true, then it’s entirely plausible that Christian belief is a properly basic belief. Thus, arguments against the rationality of Christianity must also be accompanied by additional and independent arguments for the falsity of Christianity. Is Plantinga right?
Resources referenced include:
- Warranted Christian Belief by Alvin Plantinga
- Knowledge and Christian Belief by Alvin Plantinga
- Religious Epistemology by Tyler Dalton McNabb
- Master List of Reformed Epistemology compiled by Cameron Bertuzzi
- Plantinga Videos
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