Open AccessReligion and the Problem of Rationality: Insights from Akan Religious Thought
Author(s) -
Hasskei M. Majeed
Publication year - 2015
Publication title -
africa thought and practice/thought and practice
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
eISSN - 2076-7714
pISSN - 0251-043X
DOI - 10.4314/tp.v6i2.2
Subject(s) - rationality , irrationality , epistemology , revelation , metaphysics , positivism , sociology , philosophy , predestination , religious belief , theology
Arguments against the practice of religion and, in general, against belief in metaphysical entities, have been made in different cultures and at different times in human history. This article, however, does not offer a historical outline of such arguments. Rather, it reflects on some contemporary remarks made, especially in Western thought, against religion. It illustrates how a correct understanding of Traditional Akan Religion renders untrue claims that seek to dismiss religion on the grounds of irrationality. Utilising philosophical reflection, it shows how rational belief in a Traditional African Religion such as the Akan one is.Key WordsRationality, revelation, logical positivism, predestination, free will, Akan religion, African religion