Works of scholars: Critiques of religious belief (Dawkins and Westphal; Russell and Copleston)

This topic examines key critiques of religious belief from both atheist and theist perspectives, focusing on the works of Richard Dawkins, Merold Westphal, Bertrand Russell, and F.C. Copleston. Dawkins, in 'The God Delusion', argues that belief in God is a delusion, using scientific reasoning and evolutionary biology to challenge the existence of a creator. Westphal, a Christian philosopher, critiques Dawkins by arguing that his rejection of religion is based on a narrow, Enlightenment-influenced view of reason, and that religious belief can be rational within a different epistemological framework. Russell, in his debate with Copleston, famously argued that the cosmological argument fails because it relies on an infinite regress, while Copleston defended the necessity of a necessary being to ground contingent existence.

Understanding these critiques is crucial for A-Level Religious Studies because they represent the most prominent contemporary and historical challenges to theism. Dawkins and Russell offer scientific and philosophical arguments that students must engage with critically, while Westphal and Copleston provide robust defences that highlight the diversity of religious epistemology. This topic also connects to broader debates about faith and reason, the problem of evil, and the nature of religious language, making it a central component of the Philosophy of Religion module.

Students should approach this topic by comparing the methodologies of each scholar: Dawkins uses a scientific, empirical approach; Westphal employs hermeneutical philosophy; Russell relies on logical analysis; and Copleston uses Thomistic metaphysics. By evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of each position, students can develop nuanced arguments that demonstrate higher-level critical thinking, which is essential for top marks in the exam.