Agnosticism: A Very Short Introduction

What is agnosticism? is it just the `don't know' position on the existence of God, or is there more to it than this? Is it a belief, or the absence of belief?Often viewed with suspicion, agnosticism has played an important role in religious thought and argument. Robin Le Poidevin outlines the philosophical case for agnosticism, and what emerges is a more sophisticated and interesting attitude than a simple failure to commit to. or reject, religious belief. Challenging some common assumptions about agnosticism, he invites us to rethink our own position on God, knowledge, and religion.`a thoroughly good idea. Snappy, small-format...stylish design...perfect to pop into your pocket for spare moments' Lisa Jardine, The Times`A very good idea, these Very Short Introductions, a new concept from OUP' Nicholas Lezard, The Guardian
What is agnosticism? Is it a belief, or merely the absence of belief? Is it the result of too little thought about an issue--or too much? Who were the first to call themselves "agnostics"? Does agnosticism deserve serious consideration today? Can an agnostic live a religious life? What place should agnosticism have in education? These are just some of the questions that Robin Le Poidevin considers in this Very Short Introduction, as he sets the philosophical case for agnosticism and explores it as a historical and cultural phenomenon. Agnosticism emerges here as a much more sophisticated, and much more interesting, attitude than a simple failure to either commit to, or reject, religious belief. Le Poidevin challenges the common wisdom about agnosticism among both believers and atheists, and invites the reader to rethink their own position on the issues. Indeed, in arguing in favor of agnosticism as a respectable position to take, this stimulating and provocative guide takes issue on many points with the assertions of prominent atheists such as Richard Dawkins.