Religious Studies A-Level
Epistemic Distance
What Epistemic Distance means in Religious Studies A-Level, as defined for OCR.
Definition of Epistemic Distance
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain Epistemic Distance in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: OCR
A term used by John Hick to denote a cognitive gap between God and humanity. God deliberately remains partially hidden to allow humans to make a free and authentic choice to have a relationship with him.
Topics that use Epistemic Distance
- Philosophy of Religion (OCR A-Level)
Related terms
- Eschatological Verification
- Gratuitous Suffering
- Mystical Experience
- Numinous
- Principle of Credulity
- Privatio Boni
- Reductionism
- Soul-Making
Using Epistemic Distance in the exam
Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.
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