This issue of THINK is focused on the topic of naturalism, particularly as it relates to theism.

The term ‘naturalism’ is used in various ways. Sometimes it's used to refer to an epistemological/methodological view – roughly, that our methods should be science-based. However, our main focus here is on a metaphysical/ontological view – roughly, that there is only the natural world (there's no supernatural realm, no cosmic divide behind which lie non-natural entities – be they gods, numbers, abstract objects, etc.).

Naturalism is supposed to be widely accepted – a dominant ‘world-view’ rivalling, in particular, traditional theisms which posit a god or gods. Consequently, those who believe in god often attack ‘naturalism’ (however, one contributor to this issue – Fiona Ellis – explores the idea that god can be accommodated within the natural realm).

This issue presents short, engaging and accessible pieces providing a wide variety of views on naturalism, particularly as it relates to theism, written by some of the world's leading thinkers on this topic.

I am grateful to Katerina Zacharias for her considerable and valuable help in editing this issue.