Trust of People, Words, and God

"Anyone interested in the concept of trust and its role in human relationships, religious experiences, and the nature of knowledge, among other related topics, cannot afford to ignore Joseph Godfrey's extensive study. This book will have wide appeal, not only in the areas of phenomenology and existentialism, but also in theology, religious studies, and literature." —Brendan Sweetman, Rockhurst University

"In one situation after another we find ourselves asking: how can I trust? Whom can I trust? Joseph Godfrey directs decades of reflection to explore these conundrums both critically and reverently. The argument moves us away from believing to show how 'trusting is something that is done; it is an activity that at its core is receptive: To trust is to be receptive to enhancement.' In the process he canvasses a wide spectrum of philosophical views, so as to learn from each how to parse this pervasive yet elusive subject, 'to show how trusting may be understood, and practiced, and reasoned about, in analogous . . . ways.' Withal, a sturdy faith shapes his analysis, making it the more subtle and inclusive, to lead us to an enhanced understanding." —David Burrell, C.S.C., Tangaza College, Nairobi, and the University of Notre Dame

"This is the most comprehensive and sophisticated discussion of the subject to date. Godfrey’s book is well-written, the product of enormous erudition, supported by a wide range of sources, and covers several different philosophical and religious traditions. It is indispensable for anyone seeking to understand trust, whether practically or conceptually, and will surely change the way we think about the subject." —Robert P. Crease, Stony Brook University

“The subjects of trust and hope have occupied Godfrey nearly since he began teaching philosophy at St. Joseph’s University in Philadelphia in 1976. The present book emerged, he says, from dissatisfaction with his treatment of trust in his 1987 A Philosophy of Human Hope, and the realization that available treatments are not serviceable in religious contexts, where trust is uniquely important.” —Choice

“Joseph Godfrey offers something unique in this extensive work. . . . [He] focuses on what trusting well looks like rather than advocating which religion or what God is truly worthy of trust. . . . Trust of People, Words, and God is a mature work, demonstrating years of thought and research. It is a necessary work for anyone interested in the concept of trust, regardless of religious affiliation.” —Philosophy in Review

“Godfrey’s treatment of his topic is deeply learned . . . . He excels at synthesis, finding connections between social scientists, analytic philosophers, phenomenologists, and theologians who approach the concept of trust in different ways.” —Journal of Religion