God, Soul and the Meaning of Life

Explores the potential relevance of God or a soul for life's meaning as discussed in recent Anglo-American philosophical literature.

Thaddeus Metz (Author)

9781108457453, Cambridge University Press

Paperback / softback, published 9 May 2019

75 pages
15 x 22.5 x 0.3 cm, 0.11 kg

'… Metz is one of the best in the literature at fine-grained analysis and the book valuably maps out space for possible positions and shows where the field is still in its infancy. This is both a stimulating introduction, and contribution, to the analytic treatment of enduring human concerns.' Martin Dunkley Smith, Religious Studies Review

This Element critically explores the potential relevance of God or a soul for life's meaning as discussed in recent Anglo-American philosophical literature. There have been four broad views: God or a soul is necessary for meaning in our lives; neither is necessary for it; one or both would greatly enhance the meaning in our lives; one or both would substantially detract from it. This Element familiarizes readers with all four positions, paying particular attention to the latter two, and also presents prima facie objections to them, points out gaps in research agendas and suggests argumentative strategies that merit development.

1. Introducing the philosophy of life's meaning
2. Clarifying the terms of the debates
3. Extreme supernaturalism
4. Moderate naturalism
5. Moderate supernaturalism
6. Extreme naturalism
7. Concluding remarks – further reflection on God and soul.

Subject Areas: Nature & existence of God [HRAB1], Philosophy of religion [HRAB], Philosophy: metaphysics & ontology [HPJ]