Amber L. Griffioen

By exploring how analytic philosophy of religion can expand its horizons to combat old biases, Amber L. Griffioen's new book argues for reorientations in the discipline aimed at transforming it into a field that is simultaneously theoretically rigorous, socially relevant, and inclusive of traditionally marginalized voices and perspectives.Drawing on diverse philosophical resources, including social epistemology, philosophy of science, feminist philosophy, and philosophy of sport—as well as on perspectives from theology, religious studies, psychology, medieval mysticism, and the arts—Griffioen brings the practical and imaginative aspects of religion to the fore as objects for philosophical reflection. Chapters include discussions of topics such as theological realism, religious epistemology, theistic faith, the religious imagination, and theodicy and the problem of evil. Ultimately, Griffioen argues for a "doxastically permissive" approach to religion as a form of earnest play—one compatible with belief but not requiring it.Presenting traditional debates together with a consideration of their limits—and proposing alternative approaches that promise to move the discipline forward in exciting ways—Griffioen's book is an essential resource for any scholar or student of philosophy of religion.

By exploring how analytic philosophy of religion can expand its horizons to combat old biases, Amber L. Griffioen's new book argues for reorientations in the discipline aimed at transforming it into a field that is simultaneously theoretically rigorous, socially relevant, and inclusive of traditionally marginalized voices and perspectives.Drawing on diverse philosophical resources, including social epistemology, philosophy of science, feminist philosophy, and philosophy of sport—as well as on perspectives from theology, religious studies, psychology, medieval mysticism, and the arts—Griffioen brings the practical and imaginative aspects of religion to the fore as objects for philosophical reflection. Chapters include discussions of topics such as theological realism, religious epistemology, theistic faith, the religious imagination, and theodicy and the problem of evil. Ultimately, Griffioen argues for a "doxastically permissive" approach to religion as a form of earnest play—one compatible with belief but not requiring it.Presenting traditional debates together with a consideration of their limits—and proposing alternative approaches that promise to move the discipline forward in exciting ways—Griffioen's book is an essential resource for any scholar or student of philosophy of religion.

This Element looks at religious experience and the role it has played in philosophy of religion. It critically explores the history of the intertwined discourses on mysticism and religious experience, before turning to a few specific discussions within contemporary philosophy of religion. One debate concerns the question of perennialism vs. constructivism and whether there is a 'common core' to all religious or mystical experience independent of interpretation or socio-historical background. Another central discussion concerns the epistemology of purportedly theophanic experience and whether a perceptual model of religious experience can provide evidence or justification for theistic belief. The Element concludes with a discussion of how philosophy of religion can productively widen its treatment of religious experience in the service of creating a more inclusive and welcoming discipline.