The Burden of Proof

Abstract

“The Burden of Proof” In this first argumentative chapter of the text, Lorkowski argues that the supernaturalist rather than the atheist naturalist bears the burden of proof. The concept is first introduced as a dialectical tool necessary for evaluating the success of a debate. The author then argues that it should be determined using an idealized third party. With these pieces in place, Lorkowski argues that, because supernaturalists make an existence claim that is neither normally accessible nor supported by scholarly consensus, and further posits an existence very unlike those found in shared neutral evidence, they, rather than the atheist naturalist, must accept the burden of proof in defending their view.