Epistemic Obligations ─ Truth, Individualism, and the Limits of Belief

Questions of belief, and agency over personal belief, abound as individuals claim to have the right to believe whatever they so choose. In a carefully constructed argument, Bruce Reichenbach contends that while individuals have direct control over belief, they are obligated to believe--and purposely seek--the truth. Though the nature of truth and belief is an oft-debated topic, Reichenbach moves beyond surface-level persuasions to address the very core of what constitutes a human right. These epistemic obligations are critical, as the influence of belief is evident throughout society, from law and education to religion and daily decision-making. Grounding his argument in practical case studies, Reichenbach deftly demonstrates the necessity of moral accountability and belief.

Bruce Reichenbach is Professor Emeritus of Philosophy at Augsburg College. He is the author of several books, includingOn Behalf of God: A Christian Ethic for Biology and The Law of Karma: A Philosophical Study. He lives in the greater Minneapolis-St. Paul, Minnesota area.