A new basis for natural religion? Recent explanations of religion and their challenges to contemporary philosophy of religion

Abstract

SummaryRecent studies based on evolutionary approaches to human life, among them the so-called Cognitive Science of Religion (CSR), point to a variety of natural conditions for religion. These studies then re-open the whole discussion about natural religion from a non-theological angle. They thereby also allow for a new discussion about the conditions for understanding religion in general. The question about evolved natural conditions for, and concrete historical content of, religion is addressed from both the point of view of Schleiermacher’s philosophy of religion, and N. Barrett’s integrative scientific critique of CSR. The present argument suggests that more emphasis should be on the concrete experiences articulated in a religious context, and accordingly, also more openness for a perspective on religion that allows for a first- and second-person perspective.