College Faith #61: Redeeming Philosophy: How Christian Scholars Changed The Conversation
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Oct 1, 2025 Dr. Greg Ganssle, a philosopher and Chair of the Philosophy Department at Talbot School of Theology, sheds light on the renaissance of Christian philosophy. He discusses the mid-20th century's dismissal of theology in academia and how the 1960s sparked a revival. Ganssle highlights influential figures and the emergence of communities that shaped academic dialogues. He emphasizes the importance of combining biblical and philosophical truths while promoting academic rigor and charity, demonstrating how Christian thinkers have carved a respected niche in philosophical discussions.
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From Campus Ministry To A PhD Mentor
- Greg Ganssle described stumbling into Christian philosophy via Campus Crusade work and mentors at the University of Rhode Island.
- He then pursued a PhD at Syracuse under Bill Alston, a movement insider who mentored him.
Metaphysics Reopened The Space For God
- Logical positivism dominated mid-20th century Anglo philosophy and declared theological sentences meaningless.
- A renewed interest in metaphysics from the late 1960s reopened serious philosophical discussion about God and persons.
Calvin Students Sparked The Renaissance
- Calvin College students like Alvin Plantinga and Nicholas Wolterstorff formed a cluster that entered top graduate programs.
- Their friendships, mentor models, and agenda set by Christian conviction launched the renaissance.
