Ask Alvin Plantinga Anything - answering your questions · Unbelievable? summary

Key takeaways

Alvin Plantinga is a key figure in contemporary philosophy, known for his work in Christian philosophy and arguments for God's existence.
The evolutionary argument against naturalism raises questions about the reliability of our cognitive faculties if naturalism were true.
Warranted belief and properly basic beliefs are important concepts that define how we can rationally accept certain beliefs, including belief in God.
The ontological argument, particularly Plantinga's modal version, illustrates the logical relation between the possibility of God's existence and His necessity.
There’s an essential overlap between philosophy and theology, contributing to a more profound understanding of faith and belief.

Summary

Introduction to Alvin Plantinga

Justin Briley introduces Alvin Plantinga, a prominent philosopher who has been awarded the 2017 Templeton Prize for his lifelong contributions to philosophy and arguments for the existence of God. They discuss Plantinga's background, his influence in the field, and introduce various questions submitted by listeners.

The Evolutionary Argument Against Naturalism

Plantinga discusses his argument that if naturalism is true, then we have no reason to trust our cognitive faculties when it comes to questions about God and metaphysics. He explains how belief in God can be seen as more rational in a theistic framework compared to a naturalistic one.

Warranted Belief and Properly Basic Beliefs

The discussion shifts towards Plantinga's work on warranted belief and properly basic beliefs, exploring how certain beliefs can be accepted as basic without needing further justification. He explains that belief in God can be a properly basic belief, which doesn't require evidence for its rational acceptance.

Philosophy, Theology, and Knowledge

Addressing the intersection of philosophy and theology, Plantinga suggests studying both areas is essential for understanding Christianity and the arguments surrounding its truth. He responds to questions about the nature of knowledge and belief from both a Christian and philosophical perspective.

Ontological Argument and Its Implications

The ontological argument is revisited, where Plantinga presents his modal version, which states that if God exists as a necessary being in some possible world, then He must exist in all possible worlds. Plantinga acknowledges that while the argument shows it’s rational to believe in God, it doesn't prove His existence outright.

Wrap-Up and Key Takeaways

As the episode concludes, Plantinga reflects on his career, the importance of philosophical inquiry in faith discussions, and the value of being open to different perspectives on belief. Justin thanks Plantinga for his insights as they wrap up their conversation.

Show notes

Alvin Plantinga is being awarded the 2017 Templeton Prize in honour of his lifetime contribution to philosophy. The influential thinker has been at the forefront of the revival of philosophical arguments for God as well as making important contributions to the science and faith debate.

In a one-to-one interview Justin hears about his career and poses questions sent in by listeners on evolution, naturalism, scripture, the ontological argument and the state of his air conditioning unit.

For Alvin Plantinga: https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alvin_Plantinga

For The Templeton Prize: http://www.templetonprize.org/

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Ask Alvin Plantinga Anything - answering your questions