Critique of dogmatism

What it is: Many agnostic currents criticize rigid certainty in themes for which they consider insufficient basis.

How the position understands it: The target of critique can be both religious and anti-religious dogmatism, when either side affirms more than it can justify.

Basis and context: The critique appears in skeptical, liberal, and humanist essays, especially in contexts of intense ideological dispute.

Debates and variations: Some agnostic authors are very combative; others prefer a moderate and procedural tone.

Supportive

Leslie Stephen, An Agnostic's Apology

agnosticism,leslie-stephen,dogmatism,doubt

A literary and philosophical defense of agnosticism.

Reference: Leslie Stephen, An Agnostic's Apology.
Content: The author defends the intellectual legitimacy of doubt and criticizes excessive religious certainties.
Use in debate: It is a classic source for criticizing dogmatism and for modern agnostic identity.

Robert G. Ingersoll, Why I Am an Agnostic

agnosticism,ingersoll,public-identity,dogmatism

A public defense of agnostic identity.

Reference: Robert G. Ingersoll, Why I Am an Agnostic.
Content: Ingersoll articulates religious doubt, criticism of dogmatism, and a defense of intellectual honesty.
Use in debate: It is a relevant source for agnosticism as a public and rhetorical stance.

T. H. Huxley, Agnosticism and Christianity

agnosticism,huxley,christianity,religious-criticism

An application of the agnostic method to Christianity.

Reference: T. H. Huxley, essay Agnosticism and Christianity.
Content: Huxley applies his methodological principle to specific Christian claims and criticizes assertions that are not sufficiently demonstrated.
Use in debate: It is an important source for criticism of concrete religious dogmatism.