Arguing from Cognitive Science of Religion: Is Religious Belief Debunked

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This book considers whether recent theories from Cognitive Science of Religion (CSR) undermine the epistemic status of religious belief. After introducing the key theories in the growing area of CSR, Hans Van Eyghen explores some of the epistemic questions surrounding CSR, including: Is CSR incompatible with the truth of religious belief How might CSR show that religious belief is unreliably formed And, finally, does CSR undermine the justification of religious belief by religious experiences In addressing these questions, he demonstrates how CSR does not undermine the epistemic bases for religious belief. This book offers a clear and concise overview of the current state of cognitive science of religion and will be of particular interest to scholars working in philosophy and epistemology of religion.

Reviews

Does scientifically explaining religious thoughts mean those thoughts are non-rational Van Eyghen resists any simplistic conclusions when considering new findings and theories coming from cognitive and evolutionary studies of religion. His analysis provides a great service to the growing number of thinkers interested in the theological and philosophical implications of the scientific study of religion. * Justin L. Barrett, Chief Project Developer, Office for Science, Theology, and Religion Initiatives, Fuller Theological Seminary, USA *
Offers a thorough and in-depth discussion of the most prominent theories in the cognitive science of religion, and a careful assessment of the philosophical implications of these theories for warranted theistic belief. Whether you agree with the conclusions or not, this book provides a compelling read and lots of food for thought and further discussion. * Michiel van Elk, Assistant Professor of Psychology, University of Amsterdam, The Netherlands *

Author Bio

Hans Van Eyghen completed his PhD at VU Amsterdam, Netherlands.