#20: What’s Real and Why Does it Matter?

What is real? This has been a defining question in our modern era. How should a thinking Christian answer this question? J.P. and Stan describe the foundational beliefs and distinctions necessary for addressing this central issue in grace and truth. In this podcast, we discuss:What is a property? What are some examples of properties? How is this question related to what truth is, the Incarnation, and so much more?Why is it not commonplace to assume properties exist? How underlying assumptions impact beliefs about what is real.What is a “universal”? How do we experience universals and why would a person reject them?What is the difference between physicalism and naturalism? How are they similar? What would people with these views of reality believe to be real?Why do some believers reject universals on theological grounds? Are they right?What is nominalism? What are the various types of nominalists?Why is it important to work hard at understanding ideas that don’t seem to have immediate practical value?Resources mentioned during our conversation:Stan Wallace, “Three Reasons to Believe in Things You Can’t See”J.P. Moreland and Garrett DeWeese, Philosophy Made Slightly Less Difficult: A Beginner's Guide to Life’s Big Questions, Chapter 2: What is Real? Metaphysics--The Problem of UniversalsJ.P. Moreland and William Lane Craig, Philosophical Foundations for a Christian Worldview, Chapter 10: General Ontology: Two Categories--Property and SubstancePaul Gould, Beyond the Control of God?: Six Views on the Problem of God and Abstract ObjectsPaul Gould’s Website