In this book, eminent theologian Keith Ward takes a fresh look at the ancient philosophy of Idealism, connects it with findings in modern science, and shows that a combination of good science, good philosophy, and a passion for truth and goodness, can underpin religious faith. Going back to first principles, he argues for the Idealist view that all knowledge begins with experience. Critically examining the idealism of Plato, Kant, and Hegel, Ward shows how this philosophy is strengthened by a knowledge of modern physics, and how it can lead to a new and vivid presentation of Christian faith. A work of philosophical rigour that makes clear the rational nature of belief in God, this book challenges the easy assumptions of materialism and the relativity of truth that undermine both science and religion. Ward writes in an accessible and readable style that gives new life and practical usefulness to idealist philosophy.
In this book, eminent theologian Keith Ward takes a fresh look at the ancient philosophy of Idealism, connects it with findings in modern science, and shows that a combination of good science, good philosophy, and a passion for truth and goodness, can underpin religious faith. Going back to first principles, he argues for the Idealist view that all knowledge begins with experience. Critically examining the idealism of Plato, Kant, and Hegel, Ward shows how this philosophy is strengthened by a knowledge of modern physics, and how it can lead to a new and vivid presentation of Christian faith. A work of philosophical rigour that makes clear the rational nature of belief in God, this book challenges the easy assumptions of materialism and the relativity of truth that undermine both science and religion. Ward writes in an accessible and readable style that gives new life and practical usefulness to idealist philosophy.
Über den Autor
Keith Ward is Regius Professor of Divinity Emeritus at the University of Oxford, Professor of the Philosophy of Religion at Roehampton University, and a Fellow of the British Academy. He is a Canon of Christ Church, Oxford.
Inhaltsverzeichnis
Introduction; Part I. The Nature of Mind: 1. What personal idealism is; 2. Beginning from experience; 3. The unitary self; 4. The self as agent; 5. Inferential and interpretative hypotheses; 6. The objectivity of value; 7. Personal knowledge; Part II. External Mind: 8. The idea of ultimate mind; 9. The supreme informational principle; 10. Explaining the Universe; 11. Creation and evolution; 12. Is nature sacred? 13. Eternal mind; 14. Freedom and necessity; Part III. Supreme Good: 15. Morality and creativity; 16. Philokalia; 17. The world to come; 18. Moral demand and human fulfilment; 19. Judgment and compassion; 20. Kenosis and Theosis; 21. Divine causality; 22. Reason and revelation.
