I COLÓQUIO MACROFILOSÓFICO BRASIL XV

Summary

In this thought-provoking lecture, Professor José de Magalhães explores the complex relationship between religion, politics, and culture. He discusses how religion historically played a central role in the foundations of civilizations, influencing political and cultural structures. Drawing from philosophers like Herder, Kant, and Hegel, he delves into the concept of secularization and its challenges. The professor emphasizes that the return of religious discourse in politics today is not a mere resurgence, but a complex, silenced force now reemerging. The lecture ultimately argues that religion holds a crucial place in the cultural and political sphere, shaping modern debates.

Takeaways

• 😀 The speaker expresses gratitude to Professor Carine for her insightful lecture and introduces Professor José de Magalhães, who will speak about the role of religion in cultural shifts.
• 😀 Professor José de Magalhães reflects on his initial uncertainty about the topic he would present, ultimately deciding to address religion as it relates to cultural and philosophical history.
• 😀 The speaker highlights the foundational role of religion in Western civilization, specifically in the Greco-Roman and Christian contexts, where religion has political significance.
• 😀 Religion is seen as a key element in both political and moral realms, often transcending its moral dimension to influence political structures and decisions.
• 😀 The concept of secularization is discussed, with the shift from a focus on eternal truths to the pursuit of justice within human cities, influenced by rationalism and scientific advancements.
• 😀 The speaker addresses the tension between religion and secular thought, suggesting that attempts to separate them are both illegitimate and dangerous, as religion deeply influences the lives of people.
• 😀 The idea of the modern world as 'disenchanted' is presented, with religion losing its prominence in societal and political affairs, although its influence continues to linger beneath the surface.
• 😀 Historical figures like Hegel and Schmitt are referenced, emphasizing the enduring political relevance of religion despite modern secularization efforts.
• 😀 The speaker argues that religion and politics share common traits, such as the determination of human life's objectives, transcendence, organized structures, and a goal of salvation or societal improvement.
• 😀 Finally, the speaker contends that the return of religion in political and cultural discourse is not a new phenomenon, but rather the resurgence of something that was never fully gone, and that its involvement in politics is both necessary and inevitable.

Q & A

What is the central theme of Professor José de Magalhães' lecture?

The central theme of Professor José de Magalhães' lecture is the role of religion within the cultural turn, especially in the context of its influence on politics and civilization. He explores how religion has historically interacted with political systems and continues to influence global debates.

How does the professor describe the relationship between religion and politics?

Professor Magalhães argues that religion and politics are deeply intertwined, with religion playing a fundamental role in the foundation of civilization. He states that religious authority has often shaped political structures, and in many cases, religion continues to influence political decisions.

What does the professor mean by 'the return of the religious'?

The 'return of the religious' refers to the resurgence of religious influence in global politics and society, particularly after a period where it seemed to be relegated to the private sphere due to secularization. The professor suggests that religion was never truly gone but rather silenced or marginalized.

How does the professor connect the concept of secularization to the loss of religious authority?

Secularization is presented as a process where religious authority loses its dominance, and society shifts toward rationalism and humanism. The professor compares this shift to the 'fall,' where humanity moves away from eternal truths towards short-term, worldly concerns.

What is the significance of religion in Greco-Roman civilization according to the lecture?

In Greco-Roman civilization, religion was not just a matter of moral belief but was deeply intertwined with politics. The professor highlights that religious practices in these cultures were often political acts, such as the establishment of Christianity by Emperor Constantine, which had profound political implications.

What role do philosophers like Hegel, Kant, and Herder play in the context of religion discussed by the professor?

These philosophers are cited for their contributions to the understanding of culture and religion. The professor suggests that the works of these thinkers often grapple with the religious dimension of civilization, emphasizing how the religious question is central to their philosophical inquiries.

How does the lecture address the tension between religious and secular thought?

The lecture addresses the tension between religious and secular thought by discussing how the modern era attempted to separate the two, with secular thought aiming to distance itself from religious influence. The professor, however, argues that such a separation is not only illegitimate but also dangerous, as religious concepts continue to shape human consciousness.

What does the professor mean by the 'salvific objective' of both politics and religion?

The 'salvific objective' refers to the idea that both politics and religion aim to improve human life, albeit in different ways. Politics seeks to create a better society, while religion seeks spiritual salvation. The professor points out that both have mission-driven goals that transcend everyday concerns.

How does the professor relate the concept of the political and religious spheres in contemporary debates?

In contemporary debates, especially in politics, the professor emphasizes that religious arguments cannot be ignored or pushed aside, as they play a crucial role in shaping political ideologies and decisions. He suggests that recognizing and confronting religious arguments within political discourse is necessary for a more comprehensive understanding of modern issues.

What is the significance of the 'return of the religious' in contemporary global issues?

The 'return of the religious' is significant in contemporary global issues because it challenges the assumptions of secularization and highlights the ongoing relevance of religion in politics. Examples such as the political influence of religious movements and debates over issues like abortion demonstrate the continued power of religious perspectives in shaping public discourse.