Ep. #33 – Naturalism & Self-defeat with Dr. Slagle
Summary
Dr. Jim Slagle joins us to defend what has come to be known as the argument from reason. In his philosophically rigorous book, The Epistemological Skyhook, he defends an updated version of the argument. He concludes that Naturalism is self-defeating. Also, we discuss a popular illustration used by Doug Wilson to illustrate the force of the argument.
Guest Bio
Dr. Jim Slagle spent his early years in Massachusetts and has lived most of his adult life in Portland, Oregon. Most recently, he lived in Europe where he earned a Ph.D. from the Institute of Philosophy at the University of Leuven in Belgium. Since then, he’s been an Adjunct Assistant Professor at the University of Portland, and I’ve published several articles and one book: The Epistemological Skyhook.
Show Outline
In the first segment, Dr. Slagle relays his story of how he became interested in Christianity. He also discusses why he wrote The Epistemological Skyhook.
In the next segment, Dr. Slagle discusses the purpose of the argument as well as how C.S. Lewis made it famous. He explains that the strongest version of the argument, he thinks, shows that Naturalism is self-defeating. Versions aimed at determinism, Slagle argues, affords the philosopher more escape routes than when the argument is named at Naturalism
Interestingly, he tells the story of how Elizabeth Anscombe famously critiques Lewis’ first presentation of the argument. I also ask Dr. Slagle to give us his unique formulation of the argument.
Lastly, he answers one objection related to scientism. I also ask Dr. Slagle to comment on an illustration made popular by Doug Wilson. He concludes with some recommended reading for those interested in this argument.
Resources Mentioned
The Epistemological Skyhook: Determinism, Naturalism, and Self-defeat by Dr. Jim Slagle
Phil Papers Website with links to Dr. Slagle’s Essays
Miracles by C.S. Lewis
C.S. Lewis’ Dangerous Idea by Victor Reppert
