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What Is a Philosophy of Religion?

Meghan Perry
Meghan Perry

The philosophy of religion is a branch of philosophy that explores many different aspects, concepts, and problems of religion. It looks at all religions rather than focusing on any specific religion. The perspective one takes when studying the philosophy of religion is more objective than subjective, mainly because of the number of religious beliefs worldwide. It looks at not only the differences between religions but also the similarities among them.

This branch of philosophy dates back to ancient times, as people have always discussed religion in some form. One of the reasons is because it is something that is unknowable; in other words, religion is based on faith, not science. One of the main components of a philosophy of religion is the question of the existence of a god or gods. Then, if a god does exist, the philosophy of religion also looks at the nature of the god. It also studies the necessity of religion, for example, why people feel so strongly about their own beliefs and why people need these beliefs.

The Dalai Lama, a high lama of the Gelugpa lineage of Tibetan Buddhism.
The Dalai Lama, a high lama of the Gelugpa lineage of Tibetan Buddhism.

There are different arguments used in the philosophy of religion. It looks at both the epistemological and metaphysical aspects of religion. Also, it may provide arguments for both theists and atheists to use to support their own belief systems. Knowing the history of religion is also important when studying the philosophy of religion.

Creation, redemption, and immortality are major concepts explored when studying a philosophy of religion. Each religious tradition generally has its own creation story, and by looking at the creation stories among many different religions, similarities can be found. Redemption is another idea that is studied and may be linked to immortality, depending on the religion.

Some religions hold the belief that people either go to heaven or hell, depending on their actions in life.
Some religions hold the belief that people either go to heaven or hell, depending on their actions in life.

Other concepts that are studied are free will and fate. Another idea includes the afterlife; for example, some religions hold the belief that people either go to heaven or hell, depending on their actions in life. Other religions have a belief in karma and reincarnation. Philosophers also look at the difference between justice and mercy as well and how different religions treat these concepts.

The nature of evil, sin, and suffering are also ideas that are part of the philosophy of religion. One of the ideas debated, for example, is that, if a god is loving and all-powerful, as some religions suggest, then why is there suffering in the world? This branch of philosophy attempts to answer questions such as these. It uses intellect to try to address questions of spirituality.

Discussion Comments

candyquilt

@stoneMason-- I completely agree with you.

Religion is one of the most important factors that drive people and shape their thoughts and actions. How can we understand people if we don't understand their religion?

stoneMason

@burcinc-- I don't think that people study religious philosophy for the sole purpose of convincing themselves about one faith. There may be people who wish to do that for their personal benefit. But most people are interested in this field because they want to understand how religion affects people's beliefs, values and ethics.

It's also beneficial to compare various belief systems in the world. Because comparing them allows us to identify commonalities, which can then be emphasized to bring people together and establish peace among them.

I don't think that the study of religious philosophy is harmful to anyone's personal religious beliefs. On the contrary, study of these issues will further strengthen one's beliefs and faith. At least I think so.

burcinc

I'm interested in this field but I don't think I could study it. I think it's very difficult for someone with established, strong religious beliefs to study the philosophy of religion. When I believe in one religion and one God for all humanity, how can I think about or acknowledge other faiths or Gods?

I think that someone who is not fully convinced about a single faith may benefit from studying the philosophy of religion. But those who already have a faith can find the answers to all of these questions in their religion and religious books.

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    • The Dalai Lama, a high lama of the Gelugpa lineage of Tibetan Buddhism.
      By: abhikrama
      The Dalai Lama, a high lama of the Gelugpa lineage of Tibetan Buddhism.
    • Some religions hold the belief that people either go to heaven or hell, depending on their actions in life.
      By: Les Cunliffe
      Some religions hold the belief that people either go to heaven or hell, depending on their actions in life.