num_pages: 144
description: 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 issueon many points with the assertions of prominent atheists such as Richard Dawkins.
language: English
title: Agnosticism: A Very Short Introduction
publisher: None