Rational hope, possibility, and divine action

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapter

37 Scopus citations

Abstract

One of the arguments for which Kant is best known (or most notorious) is the so-called “moral proof” of the existence of God, freedom, and the immortal soul. Versions of the proof can be found in each of the Critiques, in various lectures, and in Religion within the Boundaries of Mere Reason. “Proof” has to be taken loosely here, since the attitude licensed by moral considerations, for Kant, is not knowledge but rather Belief (Glaube). Still, loose talk of “proof” is appropriate insofar as the argument is supposed to motivate not mere Belief or faith but rather “rational Belief (Vernunftglaube)” - i.e. assent that is justified in a non-epistemic way for finite practical agents. Kant is hardly advocating an irrationalist leap into dogmatic or mystical fancy.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationKANT'S Religion within the Boundaries of Mere Reason
Subtitle of host publicationA Critical Guide
PublisherCambridge University Press
Pages98-117
Number of pages20
ISBN (Electronic)9781139088138
ISBN (Print)9781107018525
DOIs
StatePublished - Jan 1 2013
Externally publishedYes

All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes

  • General Arts and Humanities

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