Reported miracles
a critique of Hume
By J. Houston
When faced with accounts of miraculous events, how should a thoughtful person respond? This scholarly exploration tackles one of the most enduring questions in religious philosophy, examining whether reports of miracles can serve as reasonable evidence for divine intervention in the natural world.
Drawing from centuries of philosophical debate, J. Houston challenges the influential skepticism of David Hume, who famously argued that no rational person should accept miracle accounts as credible. While many philosophers and even some theologians have embraced this dismissive stance, this work presents a compelling counterargument that miracle stories may indeed hold apologetic value and contribute to the reasonableness of belief in God.
The book addresses a fundamental tension faced by believers and seekers alike: the apparent conflict between accepting miraculous accounts and maintaining scientific rigor. Houston tackles the concern that believing in exceptions to natural laws might lead to "epistemic anarchy," offering thoughtful epistemological responses to these legitimate worries.
Through careful examination of leading twentieth-century theological perspectives, the author identifies inadequacies in current approaches and proposes repairs where possible. The discussion ultimately points toward a more integrated relationship between theology and other sciences than is typically practiced.
Beginning with detailed exposition of key historical thinkers in their own terms, this study provides both valuable contributions to the history of ideas and essential resources for contemporary evaluation of miraculous claims.
What You'll Discover
- ✓ Explore Hume, david, 1711-1776
- ✓ Explore Theologie
- ✓ Explore Religionsphilosophie
- ✓ Explore Histoire des doctrines
- ✓ Explore Wunder
- ✓ Explore God
- ✓ Explore Religion
- ✓ Explore Wonderen
Topics
Details
- Published
- 1994
- Publisher
- Cambridge University Press
- ISBN-10
- 0521415497
- Pages
- 264
- Language
- EN
