Mahon McCann #102 - The Logos Project - Can the Catholic church digest modernity?
Sep 18, 2025
Dom, creator of The Logos Project and a thought leader in theology and philosophy, delves into the intricate relationship between modernity and the Catholic Church. He discusses how modernity's rise has created a secular-religious divide and the impact of the Renaissance on individualism. The conversation emphasizes the importance of a relational ontology, advocating for a blend of theology and philosophy. Dom also reflects on Vatican II's efforts to overcome dualisms and the need for a return to tradition in addressing contemporary issues.
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Modernity As Christendom's Fracture
- Dom argues modernity arose from the disintegration of Christendom and the rise of liberal individualism that absolutized choice and abstract potentialities.
- This produced a secular-religious divide and a neutral public sphere that fractured shared metaphysical reality.
The "Religion" Versus "Secular" Invention
- William Cavanaugh's thesis: the modern categories "religion" and "secular" are historical inventions that create conflict rather than neutrally describe reality.
- Treating religion as a menu of private options erodes shared public goods and metaphysical realism.
Blondel's Method: Imminence, Insufficiency, Charity
- Maurice Blondel's method engages modern philosophy from within to reveal its insufficiency and open a path to the transcendent via human action.
- Blondel defends philosophy's relative autonomy while arguing it needs integration with a higher order of the transcendent.
