The Ethics of Belief

William Kingdon Clifford

May 2022 · DigiCat

About this ebook

In 'The Ethics of Belief' by William Kingdon Clifford, the reader is taken on a thought-provoking journey through the moral implications of holding beliefs without sufficient evidence. Written in a clear and concise style, Clifford challenges the reader to question the foundations of their own beliefs and the impact they have on society. Published in the 19th century, this book is considered a seminal work in the field of epistemology and has influenced philosophers and theologians for generations. Drawing on examples from science, religion, and ethics, Clifford's arguments are as relevant today as they were when the book was first released. William Kingdon Clifford, a renowned mathematician and philosopher, was known for his contributions to the fields of geometry and ethics. His background in mathematics likely influenced the logical rigor and precision present in 'The Ethics of Belief'. Clifford's own personal struggles with faith and reason also likely played a role in shaping the ideas presented in the book. I highly recommend 'The Ethics of Belief' to readers interested in exploring the intersection of philosophy, ethics, and belief systems. Clifford's insights will challenge and inspire readers to critically examine their own convictions and the ethical responsibilities that come with holding beliefs.

About the author

William Kingdon Clifford (1845–1879) was an English mathematician and philosopher, remembered largely for his contributions in geometry and his philosophical work. Clifford's development of what is now termed 'geometric algebra' was a significant advancement in the field, influencing the structure of modern mathematics. Despite his early death at the age of 33, his intellectual legacy endured through his published lectures and essays. Clifford's essay 'The Ethics of Belief' (1877) has remained influential in epistemology and ethics, discussing the morality and obligation surrounding the formation of belief. This essay asserts that it is wrong to believe anything based on insufficient evidence and that doing so can have serious moral consequences. His philosophical inquiry was deeply influenced by the evidentialist approach, which has been crucial in debates on faith, ethics, and rationality. Clifford's work resonated with, and contributed to, the Victorian crisis of faith, engaging with themes of skepticism and belief in an era marked by scientific progression and religious doubt. Scholars reflect on his work for its prescient understanding of the importance of evidence and the weight of belief—a discourse that remains poignant in modern philosophical discussions.