Contradiction in the Contemporary Study of Faith Matters: Negation and Affirmation via a Historical Perspective

摘要

We agree with Dr. Glicksman that faith matters cannot be studied in the same way as other universal aspects of the human existence, and that we cannot assume that certain faith measures are applicable across all faiths. Despite its limitations, empirical faith research is valuable in understanding the role of religion/spirituality for the human condition. We propose the following remedies: develop cultural sensitive faith measures with psychometric properties in different beliefs; examine multifaceted, positive, null, and negative effects of different faith factors; and combine historical/phenomenological approaches to the faith study with quantitative and qualitative research. Finally, scientific investigators should collaborate with scholars in the humanities.