Expanding the Philosophy of Religion by Engaging with Afro-Brazilian Traditions

How can Afro-Brazilian religious traditions such as Candomblé and Umbanda inform the philosophy of religion? Can we mine these traditions for insights, lessons, and arguments to enrich methodological, epistemological, and metaphysical debates in the philosophy of religion? We will provide answers to these previously unexplored questions through methodological diversification—drawing upon thickly described accounts of religious life afforded by ethnographies—and expanding the subject matter of the philosophy of religion—attending to neglected traditions whose emphasis on rituals defy the exaggerated focus on belief which still permeates the discipline. This project is needed because philosophers and other scholars of religion are increasingly recognizing that if the philosophy of religion is to remain relevant, its scope must be expanded beyond the confines of a highly intellectualized and abstract “theism.” The project will result in at least 6 journal articles, 1 book manuscript to be published in English and Portuguese, 2 graduate seminars, numerous talks at academic and non-academic events, a topical journal issue on the subject, and a capstone conference including all team members. The project will contribute to expand and diversify the philosophy of religion both methodologically and in doing justice to the plurality of religious phenomena.