Unapologetic

Why Philosophy of Religion Must End

De: John W. Loftus

Narrado por: Rich Miller

Just as intelligent design is not a legitimate branch of biology in public educational institutions, nor should the philosophy of religion be a legitimate branch of philosophy. So argues acclaimed author John W. Loftus in this forceful takedown of the very discipline in which he was trained. In his call for ending the philosophy of religion, he argues that, as it is presently being practiced, the main reason the discipline exists is to serve the faith claims of Christianity. Most of the philosophy of religion has become little more than an effort to defend and rationalize preexisting Christian beliefs. If subjects such as biology, chemistry, physics, and geology are all taught without reference to faith-based supernatural forces as explanations, faith-based teachings should not be acceptable in this discipline either. While the book offers a fascinating study of the fallacies and flaws on which one whole field of study rests, it speaks to something much larger in the ongoing culture wars. By highlighting the stark differences between faith-based reasoning and evidence-based reasoning, Loftus presents vital arguments and lessons about the importance of critical thinking not only in all aspects of study but also in life. His conclusions and recommendations thus resonate far beyond the ivory towers and ivy-covered walls of academic institutions.

©2016 John W. Loftus (P)2016 Pitchstone Publishing

MUST LISTEN!

Absolutely amazing, John does a superb job on this one. Easy to follow and understand.

Clever - Logical - Sensible - Amazing Insight

This is not Mr. Loftus' first book. When I read his writing for the first time, the logic and thoroughness with which he covered the topic made me think there was nothing more for him to do. When I read his second book, I was amazed how well presented and fresh ideas that I thought - for sure there is nothing more for him to write about... before reading this book, I was a bit apprehensive thinking lightning can't strike so many times, but again I was mistaken in my presumptions. The author is uniquely positioned because not only has he studied and obtained degrees in the very subject he proposes to eliminate from secular university, but he has lived it, taught the subject, and spent lots of time promulgating it with some of the best and most famous philosophy of religion "experts". Loftus dissects the issues exposing this subject, which has only existed since the 1950's, as nothing more than either plain philosophy or, more often, plain apologetic. This book is easy to read and, in its appendices, it has some excellent interviews with the defenders of the Philosophy of Religion. He presents his arguments and the PoR most famous counterarguments allowing the reader to come to the logical and inevitable conclusion that PoR shouldn't exist any more. A highly recommended book for anyone thinking in studying PoR.

I feel and share the author's frustration

I'm in complete agreement with Mr. Lofts and I recommend this book and its advice to all philosophy of religion departments at secular universities.