The Thomistic Institute Why Should We Believe God Exists? | Prof. Joseph Trabbic
Nov 11, 2024
Joseph Trabbic, an associate professor of philosophy at Ave Maria University, discusses the rational foundations for belief in God. He explores how all beings depend on God for their essence, likening this relationship to a lamp powered by extension cords. Trabbic delves into the complexities of the Trinity, asserting that belief in a non-contingent creator is grounded in reason and evidence, while expanding on the Nicene Creed's portrayal of God. His insights bridge metaphysics and moral philosophy, enriching the conversation about faith and existence.
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Belief vs. Knowledge
- Belief and knowledge are both judgments about reality, motivated by evidence.
- Belief relies on extrinsic evidence, while knowledge relies on intrinsic evidence.
Types of Evidence
- Extrinsic evidence can be testimony, but also other facts that seem connected to the judgment.
- Intrinsic evidence comes directly from the judged thing or something necessarily linked to it.
Actual vs. Possible Facts
- Judgments can be about actual facts or possible facts.
- Possible facts are non-contradictory and supported by intrinsic or extrinsic evidence.