Synopses & Reviews
Robert Merrihew Adams has been a leader in renewing philosophical respect for the idea that moral obligation may be founded on the commands of God. This collection of Adams' essays, two of which are previously unpublished, draws from his extensive writings on philosophical theology that
discuss metaphysical, epistemological, and ethical issues surrounding the concept of God--whether God exists or not, what God is or would be like, and how we ought to relate ourselves to such a being. Adams studies the relation between religion and ethics, delving into an analysis of moral
arguments for theistic belief. In several essays, he applies contemporary studies in the metaphysics of individuality, possibility and necessity, and counterfactual conditionals to issues surrounding the existence of God and problems of evil.
Review
"Adams is a master of the art of treating complex philosophical issues with economy and clarity. His writing displays a nice combination of plain diction and subtle thought....An important collection....No one interested in philosophical theology shoulc remain ignorant of the contents of this book."--Faith and Philosophy
"Should be accessible to a wide audience interested in questions about religion. Adams is a master of the art of treating complex philosophical issues with economy and clarity. His writing displays a nice combination of plain diction and subtle thought....An important collection....No one interested in philosophical theology should remain ignorant of the contents of this book."--Faith and Philosophy
"Represents a substantial contribution."--Ethics
Synopsis
Robert Merrihew Adams has been a leader in renewing philosophical respect for the idea that moral obligation may be founded on the commands of God. This collection of Adams' essays, two of which are previously unpublished, draws from his extensive writings on philosophical theology that discuss metaphysical, epistemological, and ethical issues surrounding the concept of God--whether God exists or not, what God is or would be like, and how we ought to relate ourselves to such a being. Adams studies the relation between religion and ethics, delving into an analysis of moral arguments for theistic belief. In several essays, he applies contemporary studies in the metaphysics of individuality, possibility and necessity, and counterfactual conditionals to issues surrounding the existence of God and problems of evil.