What beliefs should NEVER be questioned?
In this meta-Spectrum Street Epistemology conversation in San Juan, Peter Boghossian asks six participants to consider the claim, “Some beliefs should never be questioned.” Religious beliefs hold a unique position among the participants’ responses. Topics include subjective vs. objective definitions of truth, how the longevity of a belief affects its strength, and how to assess the legitimacy of information. At the end, Peter answers a question about his view of religion.
Thank you for producing such great content! You always model great behavior in your SSE events and your poise was off the charts in this one, a Reid-like zen performance. I think some of the participants will give your questions further thought. The part of the video that stood out to me the most was when the man on the agree line pointed out that he wasn't sure why he agreed with the primary ideas of the woman on the disagree line, yet they were on different lines. Some follow-up questions that might have been interesting:
Should the beliefs of other denominations within your religion ever be questioned?
Would you question a minor religious belief you currently hold, like your interpretation of the prophecies of Daniel for example, if presented with theological arguments that suggest another interpretation makes more sense?
I wonder how many of them would have moved to agree+ if you used your 1 Peter 3:15 reference? I think one of your questions that helps put their other answers into perspective is "If your religion was false, would you want to know?" Thanks again for the great content.
We walk through life knowing most people “think” this way but, when you see it in action like this, it’s truly terrifying. This is your best work.