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Faith is believing things by definition, which are not…

“Faith is believing things by definition, which are not justified by reason. If it were justified by reason, it wouldn't be faith. It would just be ordinary belief. It's something you can't prove. That's what faith is, believing something you can't prove.” quote by Colin McGinn
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“Faith is believing things by definition, which are not justified by reason. If it were justified by reason, it wouldn't be faith. It would just be ordinary belief. It's something you can't prove. That's what faith is, believing something you can't prove.”

Colin McGinn

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Faith is belief without rational justification, distinct from ordinary belief that can be reasoned

In simple terms: Faith = belief without proof

Key Takeaway

Understand faith as non‑rational belief

Themes

faith epistemology belief

Mood

reflective skeptical

Type

philosophical theoretical

When to use this quote

  • Personal convictions
  • religious practice
  • ethical decisions
  • public discourse

Key Concepts

Rationalism existentialism

Questions to Reflect On

  • What role should faith play in public policy?
  • Can faith coexist with scientific understanding?
A Different Perspective

Faith may conflict with evidence‑based reasoning

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