Abstract

This book provides a series of selections from what has been written in this field by past Western philosophers. Topics treated include the proofs of the existence of God, immortality, free will, religious language and the nature of belief. After extracts from Plato, Augustine, Pseudo-Dionysius, Anselm and Aquinas, the main period represented is that from Lord Herbert of Cherbury and Descartes to the present century, but no living philosopher is included. Biographical, philosophical and bibliographical notes introduce each selection, to make the student's task easier. But no attempt is made to assess the validity of the reasonings of the philosophers represented, since this would destroy much of the value of the direct encounter with them which this book aims to provide. The present volume aims not only to give a sound background, but also to reflect some contemporary philosophical concerns. Although it has been produced primarily with theological students and teachers in mind, it ought to be useful to anyone else who reflects about religion, Ninian Smart was Professor of Theology in the University or Birmingham.