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Delve into the intersection of faith and irrationality in religion, from mystical paths to intense feelings of dependence, through the eyes of philosophers and mystics. Discover how the concept of a leap of faith and the idea of God as the ultimate concern challenge traditional notions of reason. Explore the different perspectives offered by Islamic mystics, Schleiermacher, James, Kierkegaard, and Tillich in this thought-provoking journey.
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Chapter 1: ReligionBeyond Reason: Faith and Irrationality Introducing Philosophy, 10th edition Robert C. Solomon, Kathleen Higgins, and Clancy Martin
God as Experience • The Islamic mystics (or Sufis) argue that rationalist and mystical experiences lead to the same truths by different “paths” • Friedrich Schleiermacher insisted that religion is simply a matter of intense feelings of dependence
William James argued that, although ineffable, mystic experience gives knowledge • James’ argument is similar to an argument by Sufi philosopher Mohammad al-Ghazali
Leap of Faith • Kierkegaard admitted Christian doctrines are absurd • However, it is the absurdity that makes passionate faith possible • The “inwardness” of the subjective experience requires a “leap of faith”
God as Ultimate Concern • Paul Tillich proposed an “irrational” Christianity • Abandon traditional notion of God • Focus on strictly personal concerns • God is the symbol of “ultimate concern” • God represents one’s meaningful existence