Philosophy of Religion

Chapter 10. A Definition of Religion

Section  6 Final Questions

  1. Is religion necessary for human existence?
  2. Is religion necessary for morality?
  3. Is religion a sign of maturity or of infantile tendencies?
  4. Is religion capable of being made fully rational?
  5. Is religion part of what makes humans what they are?

The topic of religion is one that is capable of raising great passion in human beings. Hopefully, the reader is now better informed as to the major issues in and perspectives on religion and  may have a better understanding of religion as a human phenomena and of the intensity of experience with which it is often associated.  The key questions concerning the nature of faith and the existence of divine, spiritual or supernatural beings have not been resolved in this work.  It is for each person to make the best reasoned judgment on these matters after a careful consideration of all the evidence and all the alternative positions.   To avoid such judgments becoming matters of faith and doctrine and dogma then such judgments must also be kept under continuing scrutiny in the light of new evidence and the presentation of new perspectives and arguments.

© Copyright Philip A. Pecorino 2001. All Rights reserved.

Web Surfer's Caveat: These are class notes, intended to comment on readings and amplify class discussion. They should be read as such. They are not intended for publication or general distribution.

Return to:      Table of Contents for the Online Textbook