Tim Bayne

The philosophy of religion is concerned not with religion as a social, cultural, or political phenomenon, but with philosophical questions that are prompted by religious faith and experience.

One approach to distinguishing theology from the philosophy of religion appeals to the perspective that one adopts in attempting to answer a particular question. Theological discussions occur within the context of a particular religious tradition, whereas philosophical discussions aim to transcend the boundaries between traditions.

the philosophy of religion are considerations that ought, in principle at least, to be compelling to people irrespective of their religious convictions.

philosophy and religion should be kept apart on the grounds that questions about God’s existence (for example) are simply beyond the reach of philosophical methods.

The philosophy of religion may not be able to provide definitive answers to the questions that it asks, but it would not be unreasonable to hope that it can at least illuminate them.

It is certainly true that the levers of belief are not moved by the force of reason alone; indeed, when it comes to religious matters it’s doubtful whether reason is even the primary source of belief.

It goes wrong in assuming that presenting a person with objections to their views involves infringing their freedom of belief.