The Apologetic Task and the Nature of Beliefs

by Domenic Marbaniang

THE APOLOGETIC TASK

1. CLARIFICATION. Define terms. Clarify misunderstandings, doubts, meaning.
2. JUSTIFICATION. Defend terms. Justify belief with appropriate reasons.

* The point of focus is truth-statements; not religious identity, but beliefs.

THE NATURE OF BELIEFS
1. SYSTEMIC. The statement "Killing is wrong" is connected with other statements within a system. In Humanism, for instance, the rationale is "Everyone has a right to life", "Human life is precious" etc. In Buddhism, the rationale would be "Ahimsa is the greatest rule", "Desire is the cause of suffering", etc.
2. SIMPLE. Beliefs are simple; therefore, basic. They can be stated in simple statements that are understandable.
3. SURE. Beliefs are held because the adherent is sure that what he holds to is true. Uncertainty cannot be the quality of beliefs. It is the quality of doubt.