RORTY’S THESIS OF RELIGION AS A CONVERSATION STOPPER: A METAPHYSICAL PARADIGM

Alo Franklin Chibuzor

Department of Philosophy, Federal University, Wukari, Taraba State

Abstract

Religion as a concept has generated divergent perspectives, interpretations and approaches among scholars. While some speak in favour of it, others see it as problematic. Richard Rorty, for instance, heavily criticized religion as a practice that lays its foundation on a supernatural being that lacks rational and empirical evidence. He describes religion as a “conversation-stopper,” contending that it creates unnecessary formidable hurdles for human peaceful existence. Religion, he strongly believes, closes down rather than expands debates that is not subsumed within its doctrines. It halts democratic deliberations and creates barriers to an all-inclusive dialogue he argues. As a result, Rorty sanctions the privatization of religion in support of his pragmatic philosophy which gives primacy to practicality and inter-subjectivity. It is on the strength of this that the work engages in critical method and argues that, Rorty’s approach towards religion was aimed at fostering inclusivity while neutralizing conflicts. It nevertheless, suffocates the contrasting views and lays a controversial foundation that impedes harmonious synthesis of faith and reason.

Keywords: Rorty, Religion, Conversation-Stopper, Democratic Deliberation, Metaphysical Paradigm.