The Theology Pugcast Empiricist Deformations of Augustinian Theology
Jan 5, 2026
Dive into how Augustinian themes have been distorted to shape modern empiricism, particularly in the Scottish tradition. Explore how Hume's thoughts emerged from theological anxieties, pivoting on sociability over metaphysical concerns. Discover the implications of empathy-based ethics linking self-interest to morality. The discussion navigates through mistrust of reason, the evolution of knowledge hierarchies, and critiques of secularism as a deformed byproduct of earlier theological concepts. Timely reflections on reintegrating spirituality into our modern worldview capture the essence of this compelling dialogue.
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Deformed Augustinian Roots Of Empiricism
- Deformed Augustinianism seeded modern secular empiricism by overemphasizing human depravity and distrust of reason.
- That shift redirected epistemic authority from divine illumination to sensory experience and probabilistic knowledge.
Hume’s Philosophy As Therapy
- Hume's empiricism functions as a therapeutic response to Calvinist anxiety about election and inner certitude.
- He reoriented life toward sociability and practical engagement rather than obsessive inward spiritual self-scrutiny.
Sympathy As Secular Self-Interest
- Moral sympathy in Hume and others emerges as a form of self-interested sociability, not transcendent sacrifice.
- Without a transcendent teleology, empathy becomes projection and lacks cost-bearing sacrificial depth.
