The Future of Judeo Christianity
Publisher
:
Presses Universitaires de France
Parution date
:
2002
EAN
:
9782130529941
Description
Yvon Brès presents a new perspective on the future of Judeo-Christianity. Brès observes that despite being largely agnostic or atheist, the West has held on to many Judeo-Christian ethics, such as charity and justice. Most agnostics and atheists, however, and even many who consider themselves “religious,” continue to observe Judeo-Christian holidays and rituals without regard for the notions of sin and salvation that are associated with Judeo-Christian ethics. In fact, they have little concern for the metaphysical side of religion.
Despite the dilution of the Judeo-Christian tradition, Brès argues that Judeo-Christianity has a future, albeit a limited one. This future of Judeo-Christian religions could lie in what Brès calls a “positive illusion,” referring to a delightful enchantment in which a willing suspension of disbelief turns religion into a practice of aesthetics and theatrics.
Brès argues that the evolution of Western culture towards a religion of this type has been noted by philosophers, scientists and even religious figures including Kant, Bergson, Freud, and Pope Jean Paul II.
Author
Brès Brès : Yvon Brès is a professor emeritus at Paris VII and the director of La Revue Philosphique.
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