The Epistemic Presumption in the Question of God’s Existence

Document Type : Research Paper

Author

Assistant Professor, Department of Kalam, Iranian Institute of Philosophy, Tehran, Iran.

Abstract

Evidentialism posits that the epistemic value of propositions lies in their evidence. However, alternative approaches, independent of evidential support, have emerged to maintain validity when competing viewpoints falter. This phenomenon, often termed "epistemic presumption," serves as both a procedural starting point and occasionally holds substantive truth-value. In discussions surrounding the existence of God, differing presumptions—whether theism, atheism, or non-belief—are contentious. Theists and atheists assert positive claims necessitating evidence, while agnostics posit that both positions lack support, contingent upon evidence provision. Thus, the burden of proof rests upon all three perspectives.

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References

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Philosophy and Kalam
Volume 57, Issue 1
August 2024
Pages 59-77

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