Reimagining Philosophy of Religion: Understanding, Commitment, and Making-Believe

Exploring how analytic philosophy of religion can expand its horizons to combat old biases, Amber L. Griffioen’s new book argues for reorientations in the discipline aimed at transforming it into a field that is simultaneously theoretically rigorous, socially relevant, and radically inclusive. Drawing on diverse philosophical resources, Griffioen brings the practical and imaginative aspects of religion to the fore as objects for philosophical reflection. Chapters include discussions of topics such as theological realism, religious epistemology, models of religious faith, the religious imagination, and the problem of evil. Ultimately, Griffioen argues for a “doxastically permissive” approach to the religious life understood as a form of deeply earnest play—one compatible with belief but not requiring it. Exploring traditional debates together with a consideration of their limits—and proposing alternative approaches that promise to move the discipline forward in exciting ways—Griffioen’s book is an essential resource for any scholar or student of philosophy of religion.