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.
Radical theology distinguishes belief as cultural propositions from faith as a deeper orientation, inviting a re-evaluation of spiritual meanings.
The conversation addresses modernity's influence on belief systems, advocating for adaptations that preserve essential truths amidst evolving cultural narratives.
Caputo introduces panentheism to encourage a fluid understanding of the divine, emphasizing its relevance in contemporary expressions of spirituality.
Deep dives
Understanding Radical Theology
Radical theology, as discussed in this episode, emphasizes the distinction between belief and faith, where belief consists of acquired propositions and assertions, while faith represents a deeper orientation of being. The conversation explains that traditional religious beliefs can become increasingly unbelievable due to cultural and intellectual shifts, leading to the need for a re-evaluation of what is truly meaningful. Caputo expresses that current religions may disgrace themselves by aligning with anti-scientific ideologies, thus distinguishing genuine faith as an inherent orientation rather than merely a set of beliefs imposed through cultural influences. This approach allows individuals to revise their understanding of faith without losing the core essence of their spiritual experience.
Cultural Evolution and Belief Systems
The discussion highlights the impact of modernity on the relationship between culture and religion, detailing how historical shifts have influenced contemporary beliefs. Caputo references Charles Taylor's observations about how, centuries ago, belief in God was an unexamined norm, suggesting that humanity has since transitioned into a more pluralistic context where faith is actively questioned. In this current phase, belief systems must adapt to the complexities of modern society while maintaining their essential truths, leading to a dynamic interaction between inherited traditions and evolving cultural narratives. By unpacking this transition, Caputo encourages a rethinking of how belief is formed and how it functions in today's context.
The Role of Panentheism
The conversation explores panentheism as a theological framework that redefines the divine relationship to the universe, suggesting that God encompasses the world but is not limited to it. Caputo indicates that this perspective invites a more fluid understanding of God's presence, where divinity is immanent within creation yet transcends it. He candidly admits the potential discomfort this idea brings to certain theological circles while stressing its importance in understanding the active, evolving nature of faith. The discussion ultimately points to panentheism as a lens through which individuals can engage with their spirituality without being confined by rigid doctrines.
Reimagining Prayer and Spiritual Practice
The conversation also dives into the nature of prayer within the context of radical theology and theopoetics, where prayer is viewed as a contact point with the 'ground of being' rather than a transactional communication with a deity. Caputo asserts that traditional forms of petitionary prayer may lead to misconceptions about the nature of divine interaction, emphasizing instead a meditative approach that opens individuals to the inherent mysteries of existence. This reframing allows for a more profound engagement with prayer that transcends mere requests and moves towards an expression of the individual's orientation towards love and beauty. By emphasizing the poetic elements of spirituality, the discussion shepherds listeners towards a more personal and transformative understanding of prayer.
Religion and Community Dynamics
Finally, the discussion addresses the challenges faced by contemporary religious communities in nurturing a sense of connection and belonging while avoiding the pitfalls of rigidity and dogma. Caputo emphasizes the necessity for religious groups to remain in a state of 'optimal disequilibrium,' encouraging continual re-evaluation and adaptation. This dynamic approach facilitates a community that is flexible and responsive to its members' needs while still preserving core values and traditions. By advocating for such a 'community without community,' Caputo suggests that a more inclusive and creative form of spirituality can emerge, fostering authentic relationships within evolving cultural landscapes.
John Caputo is back on the podcast! If you are new to Homebrewed Christianity, you may not be familiar with Jack. Still, he is a longtime friend of the pod, a top-tier postmodern philosopher who radically returned to his theological roots. In his new book What to Believe? , he gives a beautiful introduction to his articulation of radical theology inspired by a Tillichian departure.
If you no longer “believe in God,” the Supreme Being of classical theology, or you never did in the first place, is there anything you still ought to believe, anything you should cherish unconditionally, no matter what? In this lively and accessible book, addressed to believers, “recovering” believers, disbelievers, nonbelievers, and “nones” alike―to anyone in search of what they really do believe―the acclaimed philosopher and theologian John D. Caputo seeks out what there is to believe, with or without religion.
John David Caputo (born October 26, 1940) is an American philosopher who is the Thomas J. Watson Professor of Religion Emeritus at Syracuse University and the David R. Cook Professor of Philosophy Emeritus at Villanova University. Caputo is a major figure associated with postmodern Christianity and continental philosophy of religion, as well as the founder of the theological movement known as weak theology. Much of Caputo's work focuses on hermeneutics, phenomenology, deconstruction and theology.
