I think the fault is more with historicists who have…
“I think the fault is more with historicists who have stubbornly failed to develop a good theory of historicity. By simply resting on the feeble laurels of prima facie plausibility ('Jesus existed because everyone said so') and subjective notions of absurdity ('I can't believe Jesus didn't exist!'), the existence of Jesus has largely been taken for granted, even by competent historians who explicitly try to argue for it.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Historians often accept Jesus’ existence without rigorous proof, relying on assumptions rather than solid evidence.
In simple terms: Assumptions replace evidence.
Key Takeaway
Demand critical evidence before accepting historical claims.
Themes
history
skepticism
faith
Mood
analytical
thoughtful
Type
academic
critical
When to use this quote
- academic debate
- faith discussions
- education curricula
Key Concepts
epistemology
methodology
religious studies
Questions to Reflect On
- What evidence would convince you?
- How does faith interact with historical doubt?
A Different Perspective
Some may argue that faith transcends empirical proof.