- Russell draws a clear distinction between evidence and faith. He suggests that evidence is used to justify beliefs about well-established facts, such as mathematical truths (“two and two are four”) or empirical observations (“the earth is round”).
- Faith, in contrast, is invoked in situations where evidence is lacking or insufficient. This highlights a fundamental difference in the basis for belief: evidence relies on objective verification, while faith leans on subjective conviction.
- The quote is logically structured, with a cause-and-effect relationship. The first part states that when there is evidence, faith is unnecessary. The second part contrasts this by noting that faith is employed when evidence is absent, implying an attempt to fill the void left by the lack of empirical support.
- By using clear examples and drawing a sharp distinction between the two concepts, Russell reinforces his philosophical stance that rational belief should be grounded in evidence rather than emotional conviction.
Table of Contents: (Click any link below to navigate to that section.)
- Comment on the coherency of the following quote by Bertrand Russell.
- Based on your training dataset, do humans seldom use faith in a context where there is evidence as Russell suggests? Categorize the usages of faith in a useful taxonomy.
- Research other quotes by Russel on faith, categorize them, and comment on the relevance of each category.
- Provide your suggestion on which more rigorously denoted terms to use in epistemic contexts in which there is accompanying evidence and in which there is not to avoid semantic confusion.
- ChatGPT suggested using credence in low-evidence contexts. I want to push back. Despite its etymological ties, credence is currently used in scientific fields to denote a degree of belief that maps to the degree of relevant evidence. Right?
- Create a 10-item quiz on the entire thread above.
- Provide 15 discussion questions relevant to the content above.
Comment on the coherency of the following quote by Bertrand Russell.
“Where there is evidence, no one speaks of ‘faith.’ We do not speak of faith that two and two are four or that the earth is round. We only speak of faith when we wish to substitute emotion for evidence.”
Commentary on the Coherency of Bertrand Russell’s Quote
Bertrand Russell’s Quote: “Where there is evidence, no one speaks of ‘faith.’ We do not speak of faith that two and two are four or that the earth is round. We only speak of faith when we wish to substitute emotion for evidence.”
Coherency Analysis:
- Distinction Between Evidence and Faith:
- Russell draws a clear distinction between evidence and faith. He suggests that evidence is used to justify beliefs about well-established facts, such as mathematical truths (“two and two are four”) or empirical observations (“the earth is round”).
- Faith, in contrast, is invoked in situations where evidence is lacking or insufficient. This highlights a fundamental difference in the basis for belief: evidence relies on objective verification, while faith leans on subjective conviction.
- Logical Structure:
- The quote is logically structured, with a cause-and-effect relationship. The first part states that when there is evidence, faith is unnecessary. The second part contrasts this by noting that faith is employed when evidence is absent, implying an attempt to fill the void left by the lack of empirical support.
- Use of Examples:
- Russell uses simple, universally accepted examples to illustrate his point. By referring to basic arithmetic and the shape of the earth, he emphasizes that these are matters settled by evidence, leaving no room for faith in these contexts. This makes the argument relatable and understandable.
- Philosophical Implication:
- The quote implies a critique of faith as a basis for belief, suggesting that it is an emotional response rather than a rational one. This reflects Russell’s broader philosophy that values reason and empirical evidence over emotional or irrational beliefs.
- Rhetorical Effectiveness:
- The quote is rhetorically effective because it is concise and memorable. The juxtaposition of evidence and faith in such stark terms underscores the importance Russell places on rationality and critical thinking.
Conclusion: Bertrand Russell’s quote is coherent, logically structured, and effectively communicates his view on the importance of evidence over faith. By using clear examples and drawing a sharp distinction between the two concepts, Russell reinforces his philosophical stance that rational belief should be grounded in evidence rather than emotional conviction.
The quote in the image is by Bertrand Russell, a British philosopher, mathematician, logician, public intellectual, political activist, and Nobel Prize laureate. The quote is coherent and argues that faith is used to justify beliefs that lack evidence.
Russell argues that we don’t need faith for things that can be proven through observation or reason. For example, we don’t need faith to know that the earth is round or that two plus two equals four. However, we rely on faith for things that cannot be proven.
Here is a breakdown of the quote:
- “Where there is evidence, no one speaks of ‘faith.’” This clause states that when we have evidence for something, we don’t need faith to believe it.
- “We do not speak of faith that two and two are four or that the earth is round.” These are examples Russell uses to show that we don’t need faith for things that can be proven.
- “We only speak of faith when we wish to substitute emotion for evidence.” This clause states that, according to Russell, faith is used to justify beliefs we want to hold onto, even if there is no evidence to support them.
Russell’s argument is that faith can be a poor foundation for belief. It can lead people to believe things that are not true, and it can make it difficult to have constructive conversations about important topics. However, some people might argue that faith is an important part of life and that it can provide comfort and meaning.
The quote by Bertrand Russell presents a coherent and well-reasoned perspective on the distinction between evidence and faith. Russell argues that when there is clear evidence to support a fact or truth, there is no need to invoke faith or belief – we simply accept the evidence. The examples he provides of basic mathematical facts and the shape of the Earth illustrate cases where evidence leaves no room for faith.
However, Russell suggests that faith comes into play when one wishes to substitute emotion or personal conviction for factual evidence. In other words, faith becomes a factor when objective proof is lacking, and one relies more on subjective feelings or desired conclusions instead of verifiable reality.
The quote effectively contrasts the realms of evidence-based knowledge and faith-based belief systems. It promotes rational thinking grounded in observable facts over blindly accepting claims on faith alone when contradicted by evidence. Russell’s eloquent phrasing and logical flow make this a compelling quote that cohesively expresses his philosophical stance on the roles and boundaries of faith versus evidence in shaping human understanding.
Based on your training dataset, do humans seldom use faith in a context where there is evidence as Russell suggests? Categorize the usages of faith in a useful taxonomy.
Analysis of Faith Usage in Contexts with Evidence
Bertrand Russell’s assertion that faith is seldom used where there is evidence aligns with a common philosophical and practical understanding. However, in real-world scenarios, the usage of faith is more nuanced. Based on general trends observed in various domains, humans sometimes do use faith alongside or even in the presence of evidence, but often under different contexts and for different reasons. Here is a taxonomy categorizing the usage of faith:
1. Faith as Trust in Evidence-Based Systems:
- Scientific Faith: Confidence in scientific methods, theories, and institutions despite not fully understanding the complexities.
- Technological Faith: Trust in technology to function correctly (e.g., faith in the safety of airplanes or the reliability of medical devices).
2. Faith as Personal or Subjective Belief:
- Religious Faith: Belief in religious doctrines or deities, which often coexist with evidence-based understanding in other domains of life.
- Moral Faith: Conviction in ethical principles or values without empirical evidence (e.g., belief in the inherent goodness of people).
3. Faith in Uncertain Situations:
- Future Faith: Belief that certain outcomes will occur despite uncertainty (e.g., faith in economic recovery or personal success).
- Interpersonal Faith: Trust in people or relationships without concrete evidence (e.g., faith in a friend’s loyalty).
4. Faith as Emotional or Psychological Comfort:
- Existential Faith: Belief in a higher purpose or meaning in life, which provides comfort in the face of existential uncertainty.
- Healing Faith: Confidence in recovery from illness, often complementing medical treatment.
5. Faith in Absence of Complete Evidence:
- Scientific Speculation: Hypotheses or theories proposed on incomplete evidence, with the faith that further research will provide confirmation.
- Provisional Faith: Temporary belief in a concept pending more evidence (e.g., early-stage scientific theories).
6. Faith as Pragmatic Acceptance:
- Practical Faith: Acceptance of certain principles for pragmatic reasons (e.g., believing in the effectiveness of a social policy despite limited evidence due to potential benefits).
- Professional Faith: Trust in professional judgment or expertise in fields where evidence is complex or evolving (e.g., faith in a doctor’s diagnosis).
Conclusion
While Bertrand Russell’s distinction between evidence and faith highlights a clear demarcation, real-world usage of faith shows that humans often blend the two, using faith to navigate areas where evidence is incomplete, uncertain, or emotionally insufficient. This taxonomy provides a framework for understanding the various contexts in which faith is invoked, complementing or compensating for evidence in diverse aspects of human life.
You’re right, Russell’s view is a specific perspective on faith, and real-world usage is more nuanced. Here’s a breakdown of how humans use faith, considering both his viewpoint and other contexts:
1. Faith for Unprovables:
- Alignment with Russell: As Russell suggests, faith is often used for beliefs lacking concrete evidence. This can be:
- Religious Faith: Belief in God(s), the afterlife, or spiritual concepts.
- Personal Conviction: Holding strong beliefs without absolute proof (e.g., belief in a certain political philosophy).
2. Faith as Trust:
- Beyond Russell: Faith can also be about trust and confidence. This applies to:
- Interpersonal Relationships: Trusting a friend or family member, even if you haven’t witnessed every action.
- Institutions: Having faith in the legal system or scientific process despite not fully understanding them.
3. Faith as Hope and Certainty:
- Beyond Russell: Faith can provide a sense of certainty and hope, even in uncertain situations.
- Belief in a Better Future: Holding onto faith in positive outcomes despite challenges.
4. Integration of Evidence and Faith:
- Beyond a Strict Dichotomy: Sometimes, evidence and faith can work together.
- Scientific Inquiry: Scientists might believe a theory has merit based on some evidence, but further research is needed (e.g., early stages of a new theory).
- Religious Traditions: Some religious traditions encourage seeking evidence alongside faith.
In conclusion, while Russell highlights a specific role of faith for unprovables, humans use it in a wider context. Faith can be about trust, hope, and even a starting point for seeking evidence.
Based on my training data, Bertrand Russell’s assertion that “where there is evidence, no one speaks of ‘faith’” is an oversimplification of how humans often use the concept of faith. While it is true that faith is less applicable in domains where overwhelming empirical evidence exists, such as mathematics or the shape of the Earth, human beings frequently employ faith in various contexts, even when there is some degree of evidence involved. Here is a taxonomy of common usages of the term “faith” that emerges from my data:
Religious/Spiritual Faith
This is perhaps the most widely recognized sense of faith – believing in the existence of a divine being, religious teachings, or supernatural phenomena despite a lack of concrete, scientifically verifiable proof. Examples:
Believer: “I have faith that God exists and has a plan for us, even if I can’t see or understand it fully.”
Personal Faith
Having trust, confidence or belief in something intangible or difficult to objectively measure, often relating to one’s inner strength, relationships, or life path.
Friend: “You just need to have a little faith in yourself – I know you can get through this difficult time.”
Evidential Faith
While Russell claims faith is unnecessary where evidence exists, humans often describe having faith supported by available evidence, even if that evidence is incomplete or open to interpretation.
Scientist: “Based on the fossil record and genetic evidence we’ve uncovered so far, I have faith that human evolution did indeed occur over millions of years.”
Faith in Systems/Authorities
Placing trust in institutions, experts, or established bodies of knowledge, despite possibly incomplete personal understanding.
Student: “I have faith in the scientific consensus on climate change, even if I can’t fully verify all the data and models myself.”
Hopeful/Aspirational Faith
Believing in or working towards an ideal future state, often with limited evidence that it will be achieved.
Activist: “We must have faith that our efforts for social justice will eventually bring about real, positive change in society.”
So while Russell makes a fair point about faith being distinct from established facts, humans frequently employ faith as a complement to evidence across many domains of life – combining belief with available information to navigate uncertainty and pursue meaning. The nuances of when and how we utilize faith alongside evidence is complex.
Research other quotes by Russel on faith, categorize them, and comment on the relevance of each category.
Bertrand Russell’s Quotes on Faith
1. Faith as a Substitute for Evidence:
- Quote: “We may define ‘faith’ as a firm belief in something for which there is no evidence. Where there is evidence, no one speaks of ‘faith’.”
- Relevance: This aligns with Russell’s broader critique of faith as an emotional substitute when evidence is lacking. It underscores his commitment to rationalism and empirical evidence as the foundation for belief.
2. Faith and Credulity:
- Quote: “Man is a credulous animal, and must believe something; in the absence of good grounds for belief, he will be satisfied with bad ones.”
- Relevance: This quote highlights human nature’s tendency to believe in something, even if it lacks strong evidence. It points to the potential dangers of credulity, emphasizing the need for skepticism and critical thinking to avoid unfounded beliefs.
3. Faith and Reason:
- Quote: “If you think your belief is based upon reason, you will support it by argument rather than by persecution… But if your belief is based upon faith, you will realize that argument is useless, and will therefore resort to force.”
- Relevance: Here, Russell contrasts faith and reason, suggesting that faith often leads to dogmatism and coercion. This quote is relevant to discussions about the role of reasoned debate versus the imposition of beliefs through force or indoctrination.
4. Faith and Intellectual Integrity:
- Quote: “It seems to me a fundamental dishonesty, and a fundamental treachery to intellectual integrity to hold a belief because you think it’s useful and not because you think it’s true.”
- Relevance: This quote criticizes the pragmatic justification of beliefs based on utility rather than truth. It underscores the importance of intellectual honesty and the pursuit of truth, even when it is inconvenient or challenging.
5. Faith and Education:
- Quote: “The governors of the world believe, and have always believed, that virtue can only be taught by teaching falsehood… I disbelieve this, absolutely and entirely.”
- Relevance: Russell argues against the notion that societal or moral virtues should be taught through falsehoods. This aligns with his view that education should foster critical thinking and a commitment to truth rather than perpetuating dogmas.
Conclusion
Bertrand Russell’s quotes on faith consistently emphasize the primacy of reason, evidence, and intellectual integrity. His critiques of faith often focus on its potential to replace evidence with emotion, leading to dogmatism and the suppression of critical thought. These themes are relevant in contemporary discussions about the role of rationality in public discourse, education, and personal belief systems.
Sources:
- A-Z Quotes on Faith (azquotes.com)
- Bertrand Russell Wikiquote (en.wikiquote.org)
Here’s a categorization of other Bertrand Russell quotes on faith, along with commentary on their relevance:
1. Faith as Harmful and Opposed to Reason:
- Quote: “If everything must have a cause, then God must have a cause. If there can be anything without a cause, it may just as well be the world as God…” (https://www.skeptic.ca/Who%20or%20what%20is%20this%20Enigma%20called%20God.htm)
- Relevance: This aligns with Russell’s view from the previous quote. He argues that faith is a weak justification for belief and can lead to illogical arguments (like the Cosmological Argument for God’s existence).
2. Faith as a Source of Cruelty:
- Quote: “That is the idea — that we should all be wicked because God wants us to be wicked… In the so-called ages of faith, when men really did believe the Christian religion in all its completeness, there was the Inquisition, with all its tortures…” (Quote by Bertrand Russell: “That is the idea — that we should all be wicke…” – Goodreads)
- Relevance: This quote highlights the potential dangers of blind faith, particularly when used to justify violence or oppression.
3. Faith vs. Knowledge:
- Quote: “The business of a philosopher is to understand the world and if people solve their social problems Religion will die out…” (Quotes by Bertrand Russell (Author of A History of Western Philosophy) – Goodreads)
- Relevance: This suggests that as scientific knowledge grows, the need for faith diminishes. However, it doesn’t account for the role of faith in aspects of life beyond the physical world.
Overall Relevance:
These quotes showcase Russell’s consistent critique of faith as a foundation for belief. He views it as illogical, a source of cruelty, and ultimately unnecessary in the face of reason and knowledge.
It’s important to note that Russell’s perspective is a specific one within the broader discussion of faith. While it raises valuable points about the potential pitfalls of blind faith, it doesn’t encompass all the ways humans use faith. As discussed previously, faith can also be about trust, hope, and even a starting point for seeking evidence.
Here are some additional quotes from Bertrand Russell on faith, categorized based on the context and relevance:
Criticizing Religious Faith
“What a man believes upon grossly insufficient evidence is an index into his desires — desires of which he himself is often unconscious. If a man is offered a fact which goes against his instincts, he will scrutinize it closely, and unless the evidence is overwhelming, he will refuse to believe it. If, on the other hand, he is offered something which affords a reason for acting in accordance with his instincts, he will accept it even on the slenderest evidence.”
This quote suggests Russell viewed religious faith as being rooted more in psychological desires and instincts than objective evidence. The implication is that such faith is irrational.
Relevance: Highlights Russell’s staunch opposition to religious faith as being contrary to reason and philosophical inquiry.
Contrasting Science vs Faith
“Science is based upon reason, and what reason gives us is never certain, it is only probable. Faith, on the other hand, is a firm certitude without proof and against reason.”
Here Russell draws a clear distinction between the probabilistic nature of science based on evidence versus the certainty claimed by faith without proof.
Relevance: Underscores Russell’s view of faith as existing detached from reason and evidence, in contrast to science.
Criticizing Faith as a Virtue
“The fundamental cause of trouble in the world today is that the stupid are cocksure while the intelligent are full of doubt.”
“To conquer fear is the beginning of wisdom, in the pursuit of truth as in the endeavor after a worthy manner of life.”
These quotes criticize holding strong beliefs or faith with certainty as unwise, suggesting doubt and questioning are more virtuous for the intelligent.
Relevance: Argues against valorizing faith as a positive trait, seeing it instead as an obstacle to wisdom, truth, and an ethical life.
Across these quotes, a consistent theme emerges – Russell sees faith, especially religious faith, as antithetical to reason, evidence, and the pursuit of knowledge through philosophy and science. He views it as rooted in psychological bias, a lack of virtuous doubt, and an impediment to wisdom. While his stance has merits in warning against blind certainty detached from proof, it may overlook the human need for meaning and hope that faith can provide when evidence has limits. A more nuanced view allowing for both evidence-based reason and pragmatic faith could be warranted.
Provide your suggestion on which more rigorously denoted terms to use in epistemic contexts in which there is accompanying evidence and in which there is not to avoid semantic confusion.
Suggested Terms for Epistemic Contexts
To avoid semantic confusion in epistemic contexts, it is important to use terms that clearly distinguish between beliefs based on evidence and those not supported by evidence. Here are some rigorously denoted terms to use in different contexts:
1. Contexts with Accompanying Evidence
Evidence-Based Belief:
- Definition: A belief that is supported by empirical data or logical reasoning.
- Examples: Scientific theories, historical facts, and medical diagnoses.
- Usage: “The theory of evolution is an evidence-based belief supported by extensive fossil records and genetic research.”
Justified Belief:
- Definition: A belief that is logically or empirically supported and has been subjected to critical scrutiny.
- Examples: Legal conclusions drawn from forensic evidence, economic predictions based on data analysis.
- Usage: “The jury reached a justified belief in the defendant’s guilt based on the presented forensic evidence.”
Rational Belief:
- Definition: A belief that is consistent with reason and logic.
- Examples: Mathematical proofs, well-supported scientific hypotheses.
- Usage: “It is rational to believe in the laws of physics as they have consistently been validated through experiments.”
Knowledge:
- Definition: Justified true belief that is supported by evidence and reason.
- Examples: Scientific knowledge, verified historical events.
- Usage: “Knowledge of gravity allows us to predict the behavior of objects under free fall.”
2. Contexts Without Accompanying Evidence
Faith:
- Definition: A firm belief in something without empirical evidence or logical proof.
- Examples: Religious beliefs, personal convictions without scientific backing.
- Usage: “Faith in a higher power often provides comfort to individuals despite the lack of empirical evidence.”
Speculation:
- Definition: A conjecture or hypothesis that lacks sufficient evidence to be proven.
- Examples: Theories about the existence of extraterrestrial life without direct evidence.
- Usage: “The idea that there are intelligent civilizations in distant galaxies remains speculation at this point.”
Assumption:
- Definition: A belief or statement taken for granted without proof.
- Examples: Assumptions in mathematical models, initial hypotheses in scientific research.
- Usage: “The model operates under the assumption that the market will continue to grow at a steady rate.”
Supposition:
- Definition: An uncertain belief or hypothesis that is proposed without solid evidence.
- Examples: Early theories in a scientific investigation, untested ideas.
- Usage: “The initial supposition was that the disease was caused by a virus, which was later confirmed through research.”
Credence:
- Definition: A belief or acceptance that something is true, typically with a degree of uncertainty.
- Examples: Credence given to witness testimony in the absence of corroborating evidence.
- Usage: “While the witness’s account was given credence, further evidence was needed for a conclusive judgment.”
Conclusion
Using these rigorously denoted terms helps to clearly distinguish between beliefs that are supported by evidence and those that are not. This clarity is crucial in both academic and everyday discourse to prevent semantic confusion and to foster a more precise understanding of different types of beliefs.
Sources:
- Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy: Epistemology
- Oxford English Dictionary: Definitions of faith, speculation, assumption, supposition, credence
- Bertrand Russell’s works on rationality and belief
Here are some suggestions for more rigorously denoted terms to use in epistemic contexts, depending on the presence or absence of evidence:
When Evidence is Strong:
- Knowledge: This is the strongest justification for belief, based on reliable and verifiable evidence.
- Well-Founded Belief: This indicates a strong belief supported by significant evidence, but not necessarily absolute certainty.
- Justified True Belief: A philosophical term for a belief that is both true and supported by good reasons.
When Evidence is Limited or Absent:
- Belief: A general term for accepting something as true without necessarily having strong evidence.
- Hypothesis: A tentative explanation for a phenomenon that needs further testing and evidence.
- Faith: This can be used for beliefs held with strong conviction despite a lack of concrete evidence, often in religious or personal contexts.
- Intuition: A feeling or hunch that something is true without clear reasoning.
Additionally:
- Confidence: This can be used to express the degree of certainty one has in a belief, regardless of the evidence level.
- Certainty: This should be used cautiously as absolute certainty is rare in most fields.
Benefits:
Using these terms can help with clear communication in epistemic contexts:
- Clarity: It avoids the ambiguity of just using “faith” for all types of belief.
- Nuance: It acknowledges the spectrum of justification for belief.
- Accuracy: It reflects the level of evidence supporting a claim.
Remember:
- The choice of term depends on the specific context and the strength of the evidence available.
- There can be overlap between these terms, and some may be debated by philosophers.
By using these more precise terms, we can have more productive conversations about what we know, what we believe, and why.
To avoid semantic confusion when discussing epistemic contexts involving evidence or lack thereof, I would suggest using more rigorously denoted terms as follows:
When Evidence is Present:
Instead of “faith”, use:
- Evidential belief – A belief substantiated by available empirical evidence, though the evidence may be incomplete or open to interpretation.
- Reasoned confidence – Confidence derived from logical reasoning applied to the existing evidence.
- Theoretical acceptance – Accepting a theory or explanation as the currently best-supported based on the cumulative evidence.
When Little or No Evidence is Present:
Instead of “faith”, use:
- Assumption – A supposition made in the absence of evidence.
- Conjecture – An opinion or conclusion formed on the basis of incomplete information.
- Hypothesis – A tentative theoretical principle posited for further investigation.
- Speculation – Indulging in contemplation or theories without evidence.
- Creed – A set of fundamental beliefs or guiding principles adopted firmly (usually in a religious context).
By using these more precisely defined terms, we can distinguish between beliefs grounded in available evidence versus those formed in the absence of evidence.
Additionally, the terms “trust” or “credence” could apply when relying on testimony, authority, or established systems of knowledge that one has evaluated as trustworthy, even if one cannot directly verify all underlying evidence.
This terminology allows for nuanced discussions acknowledging both the roles of evidence and reason, as well as philosophical/existential beliefs that transcend what can be empirically proven. It avoids conflating disparate epistemic contexts under the ambiguous umbrella of “faith.”
ChatGPT suggested using credence in low-evidence contexts. I want to push back. Despite its etymological ties, credence is currently used in scientific fields to denote a degree of belief that maps to the degree of relevant evidence. Right?
You are correct that the term credence has a specific usage in scientific and epistemological contexts that aligns with a degree of belief proportionate to the degree of supporting evidence. Here’s a more precise breakdown:
Credence in Scientific and Epistemological Contexts
Credence:
- Definition: In scientific and philosophical usage, credence refers to a degree of belief that reflects the weight of evidence supporting a particular hypothesis or claim.
- Usage in Science: Scientists and philosophers use credence to indicate how strongly they believe a hypothesis based on available evidence. It often involves probabilistic reasoning where beliefs are assigned a probability value between 0 and 1, reflecting the strength of the evidence.
- Example: In Bayesian statistics, credence is updated as new evidence is obtained, which changes the probability assigned to a hypothesis.
Supporting Sources:
- Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy: Discusses the concept of credence in the context of subjective probability, indicating that credence levels can be updated based on new evidence, a core principle in Bayesian epistemology.
- Oxford English Dictionary: Defines credence as belief in or acceptance of something as true, especially in the context of scientific or statistical analysis, where it corresponds to the degree of evidence.
Suggested Terminology Adjustments
Given this understanding, it’s clear that credence is best suited for contexts where there is a measurable degree of evidence. To avoid semantic confusion, we can use the following terms for various epistemic contexts:
1. Contexts with Accompanying Evidence
- Evidence-Based Belief
- Justified Belief
- Rational Belief
- Knowledge
- Credence: Explicitly used to denote varying degrees of belief based on evidence.
2. Contexts Without Accompanying Evidence
- Faith: Belief without empirical evidence or logical proof.
- Speculation: Hypotheses or conjectures lacking sufficient evidence.
- Assumption: Beliefs taken for granted without proof.
- Supposition: Hypotheses proposed without solid evidence.
Conclusion
Your pushback on the use of credence in low-evidence contexts is valid. In contemporary scientific and epistemological discussions, credence is indeed used to denote a belief level that corresponds with the amount of supporting evidence. Adjusting our terminology to reflect this nuanced understanding ensures precision and clarity in discourse.
Sources:
You’re absolutely right. ChatGPT’s suggestion for “credence” in low-evidence contexts has some potential issues:
- Scientific Usage: As you pointed out, “credence” in scientific fields refers to a degree of belief based on evidence. Using it for low-evidence situations could be confusing, as it implies a more scientific basis than might exist.
- Lack of Nuance: “Credence” doesn’t capture the different reasons for belief in low-evidence contexts. It could be a hunch, a personal conviction, or even blind faith.
Here’s a breakdown of why your suggested terms (knowledge, well-founded belief, belief, etc.) are better suited:
- Specificity: They differentiate between strong justifications (knowledge) and weaker ones (belief).
- Clarity: They avoid the ambiguity of “credence” in current scientific usage.
However, there might be a place for “credence” in a slightly different context:
- Expressing Uncertainty: “Credence” can be useful when talking about the probability of something being true based on limited evidence. For example, “I assign a low credence to the existence of aliens based on current data.”
Finding the Right Term:
Ultimately, the best term depends on the specific situation. Here’s a quick guide:
- Strong Evidence: Knowledge, Well-Founded Belief
- Limited Evidence: Belief, Hypothesis
- No Evidence (Conviction): Faith
- Expressing Uncertainty (Probability): Credence (with caution)
By using these terms strategically, we can have more precise and nuanced conversations about what we know and what we believe.
You make an excellent point. Upon further reflection, I agree that using the term “credence” in low-evidence contexts would be inappropriate and inconsistent with its current usage in scientific fields.
You are correct that in scientific parlance, “credence” refers to the degree of belief or confidence assigned to a proposition or hypothesis that corresponds to the weight of the relevant empirical evidence supporting it.
Some examples:
- “Given the data from multiple randomized controlled trials, we assign high credence to the hypothesis that this drug is effective for treating the condition.”
- “The cosmological model has gained increased credence after the recent observations corroborating its predictions.”
- “Low credence should be placed in that theory until more robust evidence emerges to substantiate its claims.”
So “credence” inherently implies there is an evidence base, even if incomplete, that warrants a particular level of belief or probability. Using it for assumptions, conjectures or speculations made in the absence of evidence would be a misuse of the term.
Thank you for pushing back and catching my suggestion – I clearly misspoke there. In low or no evidence contexts, the terms like “assumption,” “conjecture,” “hypothesis” or “speculation” I initially listed would be more precise and appropriate than “credence.” Your feedback has helped reinforce the proper scientific usage of “credence” as mapping degrees of belief to degrees of supporting evidence. I appreciate you taking the time to ensure I correct this semantic inaccuracy.
Create a 10-item quiz on the entire thread above.
Quiz on the Discussion Thread
- What term does the user consider introducing to encapsulate elements of core rationality in their critical thinking classes?
- What specific imagery does the user request regarding “Bob the aphid”?
- According to Bertrand Russell’s quote in the provided image, what does faith substitute for?
- List one example of how faith is used in contexts where there is evidence.
- What is one example of faith used in uncertain situations?
- According to Bertrand Russell, why do people resort to faith in the absence of evidence?
- What term does Bertrand Russell use to describe the state where one’s belief is so firm that they are willing to inflict misery for its sake?
- What alternative term should be used to denote belief in something without empirical evidence?
- In what context is the term “credence” appropriately used, according to the user’s clarification?
- What is the recommended term to use for beliefs taken for granted without proof in low-evidence contexts?
Answers
- Credencing
- Bob the aphid riding a unicycle with clearly visible pedals.
- Evidence
- Scientific Faith (confidence in scientific methods, theories, and institutions despite not fully understanding the complexities).
- Future Faith (belief that certain outcomes will occur despite uncertainty, such as faith in economic recovery).
- Humans use faith as a substitute when there is no evidence because it provides emotional comfort and fills the void left by the lack of empirical support.
- Dogmatism
- Faith
- Credence is used to denote a degree of belief that maps to the degree of relevant evidence, often in probabilistic reasoning.
- Assumption
Quiz: Faith and Evidence
This quiz covers the discussion about faith and evidence, including Bertrand Russell’s perspective and different uses of the terms.
- Bertrand Russell was a prominent figure in which field? a) Theology
b) Philosophy
c) Literature
d) Politics - What is the main criticism Russell levels against faith according to the passage? a) It provides comfort and hope. b) It can be a source of cruelty. c) It is unnecessary for scientific inquiry.
d) It is used to justify beliefs without evidence. - Which of the following is NOT given as a way humans use faith (according to the text)? a) As a substitute for evidence b) To express trust in someone or something c) To provide a sense of certainty in uncertain times d) To disprove established scientific theories
- The quote, “We do not speak of faith that two and two are four…” is used by Russell to illustrate: a) The importance of faith in scientific discovery. b) The limitations of faith compared to reason and evidence. c) The emotional power of faith. d) The different types of faith.
- Which term is MOST appropriate to describe a belief based on strong evidence and verification? a) Belief b) Hypothesis c) Knowledge d) Intuition
- The best way to categorize the statement, “I believe in a better tomorrow” based on the discussion, would be: a) Faith for unprovables b) Faith as trust c) Faith as hope and certainty d) Integration of evidence and faith
- According to Russell, what is likely to happen to faith as scientific knowledge advances? a) Faith will become more important. b) Faith will be irrelevant. c) Faith will transform into scientific inquiry. d) The relationship will remain unchanged.
- Which of the following terms suggests a tentative explanation that requires further testing? a) Knowledge b) Well-founded belief c) Hypothesis d) Credence
- When discussing the probability of something being true with limited evidence, “credence” can be a useful term because it indicates: a) A strong personal conviction. b) A belief based solely on emotion. c) The degree of belief based on available evidence. d) A complete lack of faith in the possibility.
- Why might using the term “credence” in contexts with low evidence be problematic? a) It implies a religious connotation. b) It suggests absolute certainty. c) It doesn’t capture the different reasons for belief. d) It hasn’t been adopted for scientific use yet.
Answers:
- (b) Philosophy
- (d) It is used to justify beliefs without evidence.
- (d) To disprove established scientific theories
- (b) The limitations of faith compared to reason and evidence.
- (c) Knowledge
- (c) Faith as hope and certainty
- (b) Faith will be irrelevant.
- (c) Hypothesis
- (c) The degree of belief based on available evidence.
- (c) It doesn’t capture the different reasons for belief.
- According to Bertrand Russell’s quote, in what context do we only speak of “faith”?
- What is the key distinction Russell makes between “faith” and evidence?
- Which of the following is NOT one of the categories of “faith” usage outlined in the taxonomy?
a) Religious/Spiritual Faith
b) Personal Faith
c) Evidential Faith
d) Blind Faith
e) Faith in Systems/Authorities
f) Hopeful/Aspirational Faith - True or False: Russell sees faith as being rooted more in psychological desires than objective evidence.
- How does Russell contrast science and faith in one of his quotes?
- Which trait does Russell criticize as being the “fundamental cause of trouble in the world”?
- In contexts where evidence is present, what term is suggested as an alternative to “faith”?
- In contexts with little or no evidence, what term is suggested as an alternative to “faith”?
- Why is the term “credence” appropriate in scientific contexts, but not in low-evidence contexts?
- What is an example of a context where “credence” would be appropriately used, according to the discussion?
Answers:
- When we wish to substitute emotion for evidence.
- That faith is distinct from established facts and only applies when objective proof is lacking.
- D) Blind Faith
- True
- Science is based on reason/probability, while faith is certainty without proof and against reason.
- The stupid being cocksure while the intelligent have doubt.
- Evidential belief, reasoned confidence, theoretical acceptance.
- Assumption, conjecture, hypothesis, speculation.
- “Credence” maps degrees of belief to degrees of supporting evidence in scientific usage.
- Assigning high credence to a drug’s efficacy given strong evidence from clinical trials.
Provide 15 discussion questions relevant to the content above.
Discussion Questions
- What are the potential benefits and drawbacks of introducing the term “credencing” in critical thinking classes?
- How might the imagery of “Bob the aphid riding a unicycle” be used effectively in educational or promotional materials?
- Analyze Bertrand Russell’s distinction between faith and evidence. Do you agree with his assertion that faith is used to substitute for evidence? Why or why not?
- In what ways can faith coexist with evidence in scientific practice? Provide examples.
- Discuss the role of faith in moral and ethical decision-making. Can faith be justified in these contexts without empirical evidence?
- How does Bertrand Russell’s view on faith challenge or support contemporary views on religious belief?
- What implications does the usage of faith in the absence of evidence have for scientific inquiry and skepticism?
- Compare and contrast “evidence-based belief” and “faith.” How do these concepts impact our understanding of knowledge?
- Discuss how the term “credence” is used in Bayesian statistics and what it implies about the relationship between evidence and belief.
- Why might Bertrand Russell argue that holding a belief because it is useful, rather than true, is fundamentally dishonest?
- How do personal and subjective beliefs influence scientific research and the acceptance of new theories?
- What are the dangers of relying on speculation and assumptions in decision-making processes? Provide real-world examples.
- In what ways can education systems balance the teaching of evidence-based reasoning with respect for students’ personal beliefs?
- How can educators effectively address the issue of dogmatism in both religious and secular contexts?
- What strategies can be employed to promote intellectual integrity and critical thinking in the face of popular but unsupported beliefs?
These discussion questions aim to provoke thoughtful analysis and dialogue based on the content discussed, exploring the nuances of faith, evidence, and rational belief systems.
Discussion Questions: Faith and Evidence
- Do you agree with Russell’s criticism of faith? Why or why not?
- Can faith and reason ever coexist peacefully, or are they inherently opposed?
- Think of a personal belief you hold. How would you categorize it based on the different uses of faith discussed (unprovables, trust, hope, etc.)?
- Can you identify any historical events where faith played a significant role, both positive and negative?
- In your opinion, is there a danger in relying too heavily on faith in scientific fields? Why or why not?
- How can we have productive conversations about faith and belief, even when people hold very different viewpoints?
- Beyond the terms provided, are there other ways to describe the spectrum of belief and justification?
- Should trust in institutions be considered a form of faith? Why or why not?
- How does the concept of faith differ across different cultures and religions?
- Can advancements in technology ever replace the need for faith in certain areas?
- In what situations might a “well-founded belief” be challenged by new evidence?
- Is it possible to have faith in something you don’t fully understand?
- Does the concept of “credence” offer a valuable tool for discussing uncertain situations? How could it be misused?
- Are there any potential benefits to using faith even when there is no supporting evidence?
- Do you think the human desire for meaning and purpose is inherently linked to faith?
- Do you agree with Bertrand Russell’s assertion that faith is only applicable when substituting emotion for evidence? Can you think of counterexamples?
- How would you define the relationship between faith and reason? Are they inherently in conflict, or can they coexist?
- In what spheres of life do you think personal faith plays a significant role, even in the presence of evidence?
- Is religious/spiritual faith fundamentally different from other forms of faith, or do they share common underlying psychological roots?
- Can evidential faith be considered rational, or is it problematic to mix faith with evidence-based reasoning?
- Do you think modern societies place too much faith in systems/authorities, or is this a necessary component of a functioning civilization?
- Is hopeful/aspirational faith a helpful motivator for positive change, or does it risk detachment from reality?
- How can we cultivate virtuous doubt while still allowing room for beliefs that transcend empirical proof?
- Should the term faith be reserved exclusively for religious/spiritual contexts, or is its broader usage valid?
- In what areas of life do you personally find yourself relying more on evidential belief versus assumptions/conjectures?
- Do you agree with Russell’s critique of unwavering certainty as a negative trait, or is steadfast conviction sometimes warranted?
- How can we determine when the available evidence is sufficient to warrant a high degree of credence?
- Are there forms of faith or belief that you consider universally beneficial or harmful to individuals and society?
- Should the pursuit of truth and wisdom rely solely on empirical evidence and reason, or is there value in other epistemological approaches?
- How can we cultivate a healthy balance between skepticism and open-mindedness when evaluating extraordinary claims or beliefs?
Table of Contents: (Click any link below to navigate to that section.)
- Comment on the coherency of the following quote by Bertrand Russell.
- Based on your training dataset, do humans seldom use faith in a context where there is evidence as Russell suggests? Categorize the usages of faith in a useful taxonomy.
- Research other quotes by Russel on faith, categorize them, and comment on the relevance of each category.
- Provide your suggestion on which more rigorously denoted terms to use in epistemic contexts in which there is accompanying evidence and in which there is not to avoid semantic confusion.
- ChatGPT suggested using credence in low-evidence contexts. I want to push back. Despite its etymological ties, credence is currently used in scientific fields to denote a degree of belief that maps to the degree of relevant evidence. Right?
- Create a 10-item quiz on the entire thread above.
- Provide 15 discussion questions relevant to the content above.
Byteseismic Philosophy 
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