Faith means intense, usually confident, belief that is not based on evidence sufficient to command assent from every reasonable person.

The quote by Walter Kaufmann, "Faith means intense, usually confident, belief that is not based on evidence sufficient to command assent from every reasonable person," offers a philosophical definition of faith that highlights its subjective and sometimes controversial nature. Kaufmann suggests that faith involves a strong and often confident belief, but unlike empirical knowledge or logical proof, it does not rest on evidence that would convince all reasonable individuals. This distinction underlines the personal and sometimes non-rational basis of faith, which can coexist with doubt or lack of universal agreement.

Walter Kaufmann, a philosopher known for his work on existentialism and the critique of religion, sought to explore and clarify the nature of religious belief. His definition of faith acknowledges its intensity and conviction while also recognizing that faith is not universally verifiable or demonstrable through reason alone. Kaufmann’s perspective challenges simplistic views of faith by presenting it as a complex, deeply felt commitment that transcends purely rational evidence.

The origin of this quote is rooted in Kaufmann’s broader philosophical inquiries into belief, skepticism, and meaning. He was interested in understanding how individuals arrive at faith despite the absence of conclusive evidence, emphasizing the personal and existential dimensions of religious experience. This view is part of a larger philosophical tradition that examines the limits of reason and the role of subjective experience in shaping human understanding.

Ultimately, the quote serves as a thoughtful reflection on the nature of faith as distinct from knowledge or proof. Walter Kaufmann encourages us to appreciate faith as a powerful, confident belief that may not be universally rational but remains meaningful and significant for those who hold it.