

John Caputo: What to Believe?
Feb 26, 2024
John Caputo, a renowned postmodern philosopher and theologian, discusses his latest book, diving into the essence of belief in a rapidly evolving world. He redefines modern faith, exploring themes like theopoetics and the impact of technology on traditional religion. Caputo emphasizes prayer as a transformative practice and examines the dynamics of desire within communities. His reflections on panentheism challenge rigid notions of divinity, encouraging a more relational understanding that resonates with contemporary experiences.
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Belief vs. Faith
- Distinguish between belief (propositions) and faith (deeper orientation of being).
- Beliefs can change, but losing faith leads to existential trouble, akin to Kierkegaard's "sickness unto death."
Modernity's Impact on Religion
- Modernity and the Church's reactionary stance against modern science created the problem of separating religion and culture.
- Tillich's theology of culture offers a solution, addressing a problem that didn't exist in the Middle Ages.
Caputo's Catholic Upbringing
- John Caputo grew up in a pre-Vatican II Catholic world, immersed in Latin masses and the Baltimore Catechism.
- He felt that the Church's teachings were presented as absolute truths from God, leading him to question and deconstruct this notion of God.