This volume provides a framework for approaching and understanding mental normativity. It presents cutting-edge research on the ethics of belief as well as innovative research beyond the normativity of belief—and towards an ethics of mind. By moving beyond traditional issues of epistemology the contributors discuss the most current ideas revolving around rationality, responsibility, and normativity. The book’s chapters are divided into two main parts. Part I discusses contemporary issues surrounding the normativity of belief. The essays here cover topics such as control over belief and its implication for the ethics of belief, the role of the epistemic community for the possibility of epistemic normativity, responsibility for believing, doxastic partiality in friendship, the structure and content of epistemic norms, and the norms for suspension of judgment. In Part II the focus shifts from the practical dimensions of belief to the normativity and rationality of other mental states—especially blame, passing thoughts, fantasies, decisions, and emotions. These essays illustrate how we might approach an ethics of mind by focusing not only on belief, but also more generally on debates about responsibility and rationality, as well as on normative questions concerning other mental states or attitudes. The Ethics of Belief and Beyond paves the way towards an ethics of mind by building on and contributing to recent philosophical discussions in the ethics of belief and the normativity of other mental phenomena. It will be of interest to upper-level students and researchers working in epistemology, ethics, philosophy of action, philosophy of mind, and moral psychology.

This book combines the two essays which comprise the famous philosophical exchange between the mathematician William Kingdon Clifford and William James, a psychologist and philosopher. Famous for articulating their arguments and discussing morality surrounding belief, these two papers are united in a single edition.

"It is wrong always, everywhere, and for anyone, to believe anything upon insufficient evidence." -- W. K. Clifford The above forthright assertion of mathematician and educator W. K. Clifford (1845-1879) in his famous essay "The Ethics of Belief" drew an immediate response from Victorian-era critics, who took issue with his reasoned and brilliantly presented attack on beliefs "not founded on fair inquiry." An advocate of evolutionary theory, Clifford recognized that working hypotheses and assumptions are necessary for belief formation and that testing and assessing one's beliefs in light of new evidence strengthens those worthy of being held. "The Ethics of Belief" is presented here in complete form, along with an insightful biographical introduction by editor Timothy J. Madigan. Also included are four other noteworthy essays by Clifford: "On the Aims and Instruments of Scientific Thought," "Right and Wrong," "The Ethics of Religion," and "The Influence upon Morality of a Decline in Religious Belief."

The question of whether it is ever permissible to believe on insufficient evidence has once again become a live question. Greater attention is now being paid to practical dimensions of belief, namely issues related to epistemic virtue, doxastic responsibility, and voluntarism. In this book, McCormick argues that the standards used to evaluate beliefs are not isolated from other evaluative domains. The ultimate criteria for assessing beliefs are the same as those for assessing action because beliefs and actions are both products of agency. Two important implications of this thesis, both of which deviate from the dominant view in contemporary philosophy, are 1) it can be permissible (and possible) to believe for non-evidential reasons, and 2) we have a robust control over many of our beliefs, a control sufficient to ground attributions of responsibility for belief.

In this book the author argues that the Falasifa, the Philosophers of the Islamic Golden Age, are usefully interpreted through the prism of the contemporary, western ethics of belief. He contends that their position amounts to what he calls ‘Moderate Evidentialism’ – that only for the epistemic elite what one ought to believe is determined by one’s evidence. The author makes the case that the Falasifa’s position is well argued, ingeniously circumvents issues in the epistemology of testimony, and is well worth taking seriously in the contemporary debate. He reasons that this is especially the case since the position has salutary consequences for how to respond to the sceptic, and for how we are to conceive of extremist belief.

**Discover the Future Where Faith Meets Superintelligence** In a world teetering on the brink of unparalleled technological advancement, "Beyond Eden: Ethics, Faith, and the Future of Superintelligent AI" emerges as a crucial guide for navigating the promises and perils of superintelligent artificial intelligence. This groundbreaking book invites you on a journey through the ethical, philosophical, and spiritual landscapes that AI is transforming at an unprecedented pace. **A Harmonious Blend of Faith and Reason** Crafted by a leading voice in Christian ethics in the AI landscape, this book serves as a beacon for Christians and the general public alike, offering deep insights into the intersection of faith and technology. It explores the profound questions raised by the development of superintelligent AI: from the risks of existential catastrophes to the potential for AI to redefine our understanding of consciousness, identity, and our place in the universe. **Navigating the Ethical Maze** With clarity and foresight, "Beyond Eden" delves into the alignment problem, presenting the challenges of ensuring that AI systems can safely and beneficially coexist with humans. It offers a comprehensive overview of technical approaches to AI alignment, governance, and policy considerations, ensuring that readers grasp the complexities of steering superintelligence towards outcomes that enhance human flourishing. **A Vision of Hope and Caution** The book does not shy away from worst-case scenarios, providing a sobering look at potential futures where AI goes awry. Yet, it balances this caution with optimism, showcasing the transformative potential of AI to solve global challenges and enrich human life, provided we approach its development with responsibility, inclusiveness, and moral integrity. **For the Faithful and the Curious** "Beyond Eden" bridges the gap between faith-based perspectives and secular ethical considerations, offering a multifaceted view of AI's impact on society. It invites believers to reflect on the moral dimensions of technology and encourages the broader public to consider the spiritual implications of creating entities that might one day surpass our own intelligence. **A Call to Action** This book is more than an exploration of future possibilities; it is a call to action for researchers, policymakers, ethicists, and the public to engage in ongoing dialogue about the direction of AI development. It underscores the need for a proactive approach to AI safety and alignment, urging all stakeholders to contribute to a future where superintelligent AI serves as a partner and guide for humanity's continued growth and well-being. Embark on this enlightening journey with "Beyond Eden: Ethics, Faith, and the Future of Superintelligent AI" and join the conversation on how we can navigate the coming age of superintelligence with wisdom, ethics, and faith at our side.

Faith Beyond Belief gives a much-needed voice to the “good” people who have left their church but whose spirituality continues to mature. Johnston uses first-person stories as well as known spiritual authorities in describing various stages of religious growth. Some of these real-life accounts are by nonbelievers; others are by those among the growing numbers of the “spiritual but not religious.” All are thoughtful people with too much integrity to live what they consider a lie. The stories of the nonbelievers-including an ex-Catholic, a former Mormon, and a clandestine Muslim apostate who left his community after the attacks of 9/11-show how complete confidence in human reason can lead away from literal religious interpretation. But, while that step is a necessary one on the spiritual path, it is only intermediate. Her second set of stories are of people at the “mystic” level who can tolerate paradox and see truth and reality as multidimensional. Johnston’s book will help doubters to see things in a new light as well as those who are struggling to clarify their own spiritual vision. It also points beyond the atheist/believer controversy wrecking such divisive havoc in our culture today.

The scientific basis of morals is a series of essays by William Kingdon Clifford. They cover philosophical areas such as right and wrong, the ethics of belief and the ethics of religion.