Ep 11. Is Faith Ever Rational?

In season 1 episode 11 of The Big Questions of Philosophy, titled "Is Faith Ever Rational?", the show delves into the age-old debate of whether faith is a rational choice or not. Host Bryan Van Norden sits down with a panel of experts in philosophy and theology to discuss the concept of faith, its relationship with reason, and whether it can be justified through rational argument.

Throughout the episode, Van Norden and his guests explore different arguments for and against faith, from the traditional religious perspective to the more secular and philosophical approach. They examine the role of evidence, experience, and intuition in faith-based beliefs, and discuss whether it's possible to reconcile faith with reason and logic.

The guests also offer their personal perspectives on why they believe or do not believe in a higher power, and how their viewpoints have evolved throughout their lives. They examine the role of faith in society, from its influence on culture and morality to its potential for causing conflict and division.

To provide a broader context, the episode also examines different examples of faith from history, including the medieval Christian theologian Thomas Aquinas and the Enlightenment philosopher David Hume. Van Norden and his guests use these historical figures as a lens through which to understand the contemporary debate on faith and reason.

Ultimately, the episode leaves viewers with more questions than answers, as the guests acknowledge the complexity and nuance of the debate and the difficulty of arriving at a definitive conclusion. Nevertheless, the discussion is enlightening and thought-provoking, and it provides a valuable starting point for anyone interested in exploring the relationship between faith and reason.