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Exploring the Influence of Religions on Culture and Science
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Exploring the Influence of Religions on Culture and Science

A special issue of Religions (ISSN 2077-1444).

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (30 November 2021) | Viewed by 97826

Special Issue Editors

Prof. Dr. Michal Valčo

E-Mail Website1 Website2
Guest Editor
1. Department of Church History, Comenius University in Bratislava, Bratislava 81102, Slovakia
2. Institute of Psychology and Education, Kazan (Volga Region) Federal University, Kazan, 420008 Republic of Tatarstan, Russia
Interests: historical theology (especially the first ecumenical councils); theology of Martin Luther; Dietrich Bonhoeffer; Soren Kierkegaard; dialogue between religions; philosophy and science; Christianity and secularism; Christianity and human ideologies
Prof. Dr. Jove Jim S. Aguas

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
The Philosophy Department and the Research Center for Theology, Religious Studies and Ethics of the University of Santo Tomas, Manila 1008, The Philippines
Interests: phenomenology; existentialism; intercultural and interreligious dialogue; philosophy of religion; ethics and the philosophy of Karol Wojtyla
Prof. Dr. Kamil Kardis

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Philosophy and Religious Studies, University of Presov in Presov, 08001 Prešov, Slovakia
Interests: contemporary sociological theories; sociology of culture and ethnic groups; sociology of religion; sociology of law and family

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

This Special Issue of Religions will focus on the interactions between religions, culture, and science. More specifically, it will explore the multifaceted and often hidden influences of religions—i.e., the existing or historical religious beliefs, practices, customs, forms of worship, and artistic expressions—on broader cultural and scientific thinking. We also hope to explore the reception of scientific reasoning relative to its wider cultural and religious environment. Besides examining the relationship between religion and science, this Special Issue will explore relevant questions pertaining to religious roots and/or influences on selected foundational notions nascent within a given culture. The best and, most arguably, the most important examples of these are the notions of human dignity, rights, and freedoms, including the freedom to explore the physical world scientifically.

The long-assumed dichotomy between religion and science in the secular West has recently been assessed as unnecessary. Both scientists and religious scholars all over the world have been engaged in productive dialogues about the nature of existence and the desired interactions between these different and yet curiously complementary approaches to reality.

Can science in any way enhance religions (i.e., the existing self-understanding of religions and their place in the world)? Can religions with their openness to transcendence and an acute sense of moral imperatives in any way enhance scientific research and even science’s own self-understanding (e.g., in terms of the limits of science or its moral responsibilities)? Can religious piety and dedication provide the much-needed help to maintain social peace and cultural cohesiveness vis-à-vis contemporary crises, including the COVID-19 crisis?

The Special Issue will build upon previous literature that was dedicated to exploring the relationship and interactions between religion and science, such as I.G. Barbour, When Science Meets Religion: Enemies, Strangers, or Partners? (Harper, San Francisco, 2000); P.B. Medawar, The Limits of Science (Oxford University Press, Oxford, 1988); W. Pannenberg, Toward a Theology of Nature: Essays on Science and Faith (Westminster/John Knox Press, Louisville, 1993); B. Shieman, An Atheist Defends Religion: Why Humanity is Better Off with Religion than Without It (Alpha Books, New York, 2009).

While we welcome contributors writing on the situation in Europe, authors from other parts of the world (the global human village) are encouraged to contribute their unique perspectives. Our hope is to address this topic from a diverse array of perspectives while also reflecting on contemporary challenges that confront humanity.

Prof. Dr. Michal Valčo
Prof. Dr. Jove Jim S. Aguas
Prof. Dr. Kamil Kardis
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a double-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Religions is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 1800 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • religious roots of culture
  • science and religion dialogue
  • secularism
  • cultural pluralism
  • religions and human dignity

Published Papers (23 papers)

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29 pages, 807 KiB  
Article
The Gospel’s Double Antisymmetry as the End-Point of the Development of Western Society
by Borut Pohar
Religions 2022, 13(1), 80; https://doi.org/10.3390/rel13010080 - 17 Jan 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1414
Abstract
In this article, we addressed the question of whether the Gospel’s double antisymmetry can be found in reality as such and especially in Western society, which has obviously made developments in its history. Based on the conceptual analysis of language, we came to [...] Read more.
In this article, we addressed the question of whether the Gospel’s double antisymmetry can be found in reality as such and especially in Western society, which has obviously made developments in its history. Based on the conceptual analysis of language, we came to the conclusion that there are four layers of reality: the material world, lifeworld, material life and personal life. Through the analysis of individual layers of reality, we have come to the realization that they are characterized by the double antisymmetry (horizontal and vertical) spoken of in the Gospel. While the world (material and lived) is characterized by the primacy of parts over the whole, life (material and personal) is characterized by the primacy of the whole over the parts. Furthermore, if the material world and material life are characterized by the supremacy of the abstract over the concrete, the lifeworld and personal life are characterized by the supremacy of the concrete over the abstract. Based on examples from logic, science, and society, we also show how this antisymmetry manifests itself in concrete phenomena of everyday life and how it points to the gradual conversion of Western society, which is, according to our conclusion, becoming more and more like the People of God, the heir of the Kingdom of Heaven proclaimed by Jesus of Nazareth. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exploring the Influence of Religions on Culture and Science)
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13 pages, 287 KiB  
Article
The Relationship between Religion and National Culture in Poland in Light of John Paul II’s Philosophical and Theological Reflections
by Elżbieta Osewska, Józef Stala and Krzysztof Bochenek
Religions 2022, 13(1), 33; https://doi.org/10.3390/rel13010033 - 30 Dec 2021
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2424
Abstract
Many historians and politicians acknowledge that John Paul II, along with other world-leaders of the 1980s brought about the destruction of European Communism. One could also say that connection between religion and culture inspired Poles to refuse co-operation with the Communism. According to [...] Read more.
Many historians and politicians acknowledge that John Paul II, along with other world-leaders of the 1980s brought about the destruction of European Communism. One could also say that connection between religion and culture inspired Poles to refuse co-operation with the Communism. According to Karol Wojtyła it is impossible without Christianity to understand the history of the Polish nation and culture. Being the son of Polish nation which has been condemned to death several times, by its neighbors, but which has survived and kept national identity, Pope John Paul II understood very well the important role of religion and culture. On the basis of his experience Slavic Pope laid out a vision for relationship between Christianity and culture as the ‘priority’ of the civilization of love. He pointed out a number of reasons for this, which will be presented in this article. First, religion does not exist in vacuum, but in a certain context. Second, religion played a decisive role in the construction of States and nations. Third, Christianity is a creator of culture in its very foundation, and deep transformation of culture starts when Christianity and culture are linked together. Fourth, Christianity is incomplete if it is not lived out in a culture. Fifth, Polish culture and society has been deeply animated by religious piety. Sixth, culture provides a medium for dialogue between believers and nonbelievers. Seventh, the goal of the engagement of culture in accordance with Christianity is the creating of a civilization of love, which enables the human being to live freely in the truth. The research aim of this article is to present the strong relationship between Christianity and national culture in Poland, to identify the core of the Polish national culture, the ways Polish culture has been growing and communicating in connection with Roman Catholicism in the light of Pope John Paul II’s teaching. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exploring the Influence of Religions on Culture and Science)
17 pages, 320 KiB  
Article
What Role Does Religion Have in Shaping Human Consumption?
by Yugang He, Yinhui Wang and Xiaodan Gao
Religions 2022, 13(1), 8; https://doi.org/10.3390/rel13010008 - 22 Dec 2021
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 4385
Abstract
Religious belief, as an informal social institution, has a significant impact on all aspects of human civilization. Previous literature has studied the effects of religious belief on economic growth, income, education, etc. Therefore, using the case of China as an example, this paper [...] Read more.
Religious belief, as an informal social institution, has a significant impact on all aspects of human civilization. Previous literature has studied the effects of religious belief on economic growth, income, education, etc. Therefore, using the case of China as an example, this paper aims to investigate the effect of religious belief on human consumption. An empirical review of cross-sectional data from China’s 28 provinces reveals that religious belief has a detrimental impact on human consumption. Meanwhile, two-stage least squares and substituting the dependent variable (hc2) are employed to perform robustness tests. The new results also support the conclusion that religious belief negatively affects human consumption. In addition, this paper also discusses the heterogeneous effect of religious belief on human consumption in terms of geographical location, income level, and marketization degree. The results demonstrate the existence of the heterogeneous effect. Specifically, in the western area, low income level, and low marketization degree, religious belief negatively affects human consumption the most. On the contrary, in the eastern area, high income level, and high marketization degree, religious belief negatively affects human consumption the least. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exploring the Influence of Religions on Culture and Science)
9 pages, 236 KiB  
Article
The Outline of Constitutional Regulations on the Freedom of Conscience and Religion in Poland
by Andrzej Bisztyga and Paweł Kuczma
Religions 2022, 13(1), 7; https://doi.org/10.3390/rel13010007 - 22 Dec 2021
Viewed by 2073
Abstract
Freedom of conscience and religion is one of the fundamental freedoms of person. This freedom is a constitutionally registered freedom and its exercise, like its constitutional guarantees, is the foundation of the modern concept of a democratic state’s rule of law. At the [...] Read more.
Freedom of conscience and religion is one of the fundamental freedoms of person. This freedom is a constitutionally registered freedom and its exercise, like its constitutional guarantees, is the foundation of the modern concept of a democratic state’s rule of law. At the same time, the concept of a democratic rule of law is a source of limitations for this freedom, implemented in the spirit of European standards. The regulation of the freedom of conscience and religion under the Constitution of the Republic of Poland is a relatively extensive regulation, showing its own specificity, rooted in the experiences of the past, undemocratic political reality. Freedom of conscience and religion cannot be considered solely in the sphere of the psyche and in the sphere of privacy. On the contrary, it has an important public-law dimension. The issue taken up is closely related to the freedom of worldview, which determines both the behavior of the individual towards himself and the behavior of the individual towards other people and towards the community. The author presents and analyzes the regulation in question against the background of the principles determining the position of churches and religious associations in the state and their relations with the state. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exploring the Influence of Religions on Culture and Science)
16 pages, 301 KiB  
Article
Ethical Aspects of the Prosperity Gospel in the Light of the Arguments Presented by Antonio Spadaro and Marcelo Figueroa
by Andrzej Kobyliński
Religions 2021, 12(11), 996; https://doi.org/10.3390/rel12110996 - 13 Nov 2021
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2622
Abstract
The main aim of the article is to analyze the Prosperity Gospel as an important element of the contemporary pentecostalization of Christianity. The essence of this global process is the emergence of thousands of new Pentecostal denominations and the transformation of other traditional [...] Read more.
The main aim of the article is to analyze the Prosperity Gospel as an important element of the contemporary pentecostalization of Christianity. The essence of this global process is the emergence of thousands of new Pentecostal denominations and the transformation of other traditional churches into a single, syncretic variety of charismatic Christianity on a global scale. Pentecostal religiosity is characterized, among other things, by prayer in tongues, miracles, exorcisms, healing services, etc. Another key element of this new syncretic religiosity is the Prosperity Gospel which represents the belief that faith may lead to wealth, health and prosperity, and the lack of it ends in poverty, disease, and misfortune. Critics of this new religiosity point out that God must not be seen merely as a realizer of human dreams of happiness, health and wealth. The first part of the article discusses the specific nature of the global process of the pentecostalization of Christianity. It then goes on to present an interpretation of the most important elements of the Prosperity Gospel. In the next part of the article, various charges against the Prosperity Gospel are analyzed, including arguments presented in the widely commented articles that Antonio Spadaro and Marcelo Figueroa published on this topic in 2017–2018. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exploring the Influence of Religions on Culture and Science)
12 pages, 238 KiB  
Article
Eastern Patristics on Human’s Free Will and Divine Predestination: Conceptual Continuity in the Contemporary Russian Culture
by Olga Chistyakova and Denis Chistyakov
Religions 2021, 12(10), 900; https://doi.org/10.3390/rel12100900 - 19 Oct 2021
Viewed by 2030
Abstract
This article deals with the most crucial philosophical and theological issue of correlation of freedom, freedom of will, and Divine predestination, which arose in shaping the Christian doctrine and remains emergent for contemporary Russian culture and society. This problem permeated all the centuries [...] Read more.
This article deals with the most crucial philosophical and theological issue of correlation of freedom, freedom of will, and Divine predestination, which arose in shaping the Christian doctrine and remains emergent for contemporary Russian culture and society. This problem permeated all the centuries of Christianity’s formation, beginning with the period of apologetics, but it reached its climax in the classical Patristics epoch during the Byzantine Trinity and Christological theological disputes between the Western and Eastern Church Fathers. In theological discussions, they formed subtle differences, characterizing the discrepancy between Eastern and Western Patristics representatives’ views. We analyze the creative heritage of Greek-Byzantine (Eastern) Patristics, influencing the relationship between human freedom and Divine predestination, also conducting some comparative analysis with Western Patristics. The attention is also focused on the subtleties mostly of the Greek Church Fathers’ comprehension of connections between free will and freedom of choice, which correlates with human rationality, high morality, and choice of deification as a movement towards God. Philosophical reflection of described ideas of Eastern Patristics is also carried in conjunction with Christian soteriology, that is, the doctrine of spiritual salvation and eternal life. A prominent place in the article is given to some ideas of deification, the moral perfection of personality, and the Absolute spiritual ascent. The article stands on the original teachings of prominent Saints of Eastern Christianity—Maximus the Confessor, Athanasius of Alexandria, Gregory of Nyssa, John of Damascus, and Justin Martyr as a predecessor for both the Eastern and Western Patristics. This article also examines the refraction of the ideas of Church Fathers in contemporary Russian culture and philosophical studies of Patristics and Byzantine philosophy. Adhering to the Russian academic tradition of Byzantology, we present some implementations of Greek Church Fathers’ ideas, particularly on free will and Divine predestination, in the works of gifted Russian Byzantologist scholars. We try to attract the reader’s attention to the valuable Byzantine heritage in order to continue the tradition of studying the Church Father’s legacy in our country. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exploring the Influence of Religions on Culture and Science)
12 pages, 260 KiB  
Article
The Socio-Ethical Outlook on the Concept of Human Aggression and a Concept of Good Society—Towards New Socio-Religious Approaches for Human Morality—Theoretical Debate
by Leon Szot and Iwona Niewiadomska
Religions 2021, 12(10), 890; https://doi.org/10.3390/rel12100890 - 15 Oct 2021
Viewed by 1616
Abstract
The authors analyze the concept of human aggression and the concept of a good society as they are both perceived in the sociological and interdisciplinary domains. They debate the issue of human aggression observed in contemporary societies, which hampers general social development worldwide, [...] Read more.
The authors analyze the concept of human aggression and the concept of a good society as they are both perceived in the sociological and interdisciplinary domains. They debate the issue of human aggression observed in contemporary societies, which hampers general social development worldwide, the expedition of socio-religious morality, and the positive action of good behavior. Both concepts have a long record of sociological research, although the exploration of the concept of a good society was most popular in the sociological research of the 1970s. At present, a substantial increase in the levels of human aggression among and particularly towards religious communities in societies during peacetime is seen as the most complex impediment to the preservation of good societies, regardless of their structural endeavors. The authors analyze the available data, including empirical data, concerning their researched theme to identify a theoretical framework of linkages that would allow them to perform further research and take stock of the scientific efforts made so far to perceive morality as a platform connecting good society models with the potential for the reduction in aggression. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exploring the Influence of Religions on Culture and Science)
13 pages, 311 KiB  
Article
Culture–Religion—Ethnicity (Alliance of Identities in the Environment of Foreign Slovak Communities)
by Ladislav Lenovský and Katarína Slobodová Nováková
Religions 2021, 12(10), 883; https://doi.org/10.3390/rel12100883 - 15 Oct 2021
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2822
Abstract
Is religion and faith in today’s economically and culturally globalized modern society just a conservative experience, tradition, and sentiment, or an anthropological universal, the primary essence of every individual and collective identity and a practical tool for realizing spiritual, cultural, and social needs? [...] Read more.
Is religion and faith in today’s economically and culturally globalized modern society just a conservative experience, tradition, and sentiment, or an anthropological universal, the primary essence of every individual and collective identity and a practical tool for realizing spiritual, cultural, and social needs? The community’s culture, religion, and ethnicity are most significant in contrast (or on the border) with others. The existence of minorities is determined by their being defined against the majority and characterized by differences. Contemporary Slovak communities living abroad, such as ethnic, cultural, and religious minorities, are a compelling object of research into the relationship between culture, religion, and ethnicity. Our paper examines the role this relationship plays in their identification, cultural, and revitalization processes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exploring the Influence of Religions on Culture and Science)
18 pages, 364 KiB  
Article
The Christian Ideal of Sustainable Development and Its Perception among Young Adults: A Case Study from Slovakia
by Hedviga Tkáčová and Daniel Slivka
Religions 2021, 12(10), 882; https://doi.org/10.3390/rel12100882 - 15 Oct 2021
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2513
Abstract
In this article, we present the concept of the participation and responsibility of individuals in the sustainable development (SD) of the world from a Christian ethics point of view. The Christian ethics perspective is based on the biblical command to care for and [...] Read more.
In this article, we present the concept of the participation and responsibility of individuals in the sustainable development (SD) of the world from a Christian ethics point of view. The Christian ethics perspective is based on the biblical command to care for and protect creation. Nevertheless, errors have been repeated throughout history because of a misunderstanding of human responsibility for what has been entrusted to man from the beginning. The article explores not only these mistakes, but also the concept of a properly understood individual responsibility from the point of view of Christian ethics. The ideal from the perspective of Christian ethics is followed by our own qualitative research. The research sample consists of 120 young adults. During the research, the perception of a person’s individual responsibility tasks for SD is explored from the perspective of university students. The research findings answer the question of in which of the four areas of SD do respondents see the needs of their participation the most. The findings of the research also indicate the importance that the young respondents allocated to all four areas of SD, which were clearly defined by The National Strategic Document on Sustainable Development in Slovakia. Furthermore, we recorded a total of 12 main areas that the respondents considered to be important tasks of man for the world and its SD. We also evaluated the qualitative findings in the group of young adults that confirm the perception of each student’s individual participation and responsibility for the SD of society and the physical world. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exploring the Influence of Religions on Culture and Science)
18 pages, 358 KiB  
Article
The Role of Religious Values and Beliefs in Shaping Mental Health and Disorders
by Beata Pastwa-Wojciechowska, Iwona Grzegorzewska and Mirella Wojciechowska
Religions 2021, 12(10), 840; https://doi.org/10.3390/rel12100840 - 08 Oct 2021
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 9595
Abstract
Mental health is an area of continuous analysis, both in the context of understanding increasingly precise diagnostic criteria and the impact of therapeutic methods. In addition to these well-established directions of analysis and search, psychology tries to explore the factors that bring us [...] Read more.
Mental health is an area of continuous analysis, both in the context of understanding increasingly precise diagnostic criteria and the impact of therapeutic methods. In addition to these well-established directions of analysis and search, psychology tries to explore the factors that bring us closer to understanding the mechanisms of the genesis and development of disorders, as well as their importance in psychoeducation or therapy. The increased interest in issues of spirituality/religion observed in recent years translates into the pursuit to explore the relationship between religion/spirituality and health. This article reviews research into the ability of religion and spirituality to benefit or harm the mental health of believers. We also examine the mechanism of developing religious delusions in schizophrenia. Religion and spirituality can promote or damage mental health. This potential demands an increased awareness of religious matters by mental health practitioners, as well as ongoing attention in clinical psychology research. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exploring the Influence of Religions on Culture and Science)
15 pages, 520 KiB  
Article
Fortes in Fide—The Role of Faith in the Heroic Struggle against Communism
by Terézia Rončáková
Religions 2021, 12(10), 837; https://doi.org/10.3390/rel12100837 - 08 Oct 2021
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1549
Abstract
Repression and persecution by the totalitarian communist regimes have significantly affected the fates of Christian churches and believers in the countries of the “Eastern Bloc”. Many members of the clergy and laypersons were incarcerated, tortured and persecuted, several bishops suffered exemplary punishment in [...] Read more.
Repression and persecution by the totalitarian communist regimes have significantly affected the fates of Christian churches and believers in the countries of the “Eastern Bloc”. Many members of the clergy and laypersons were incarcerated, tortured and persecuted, several bishops suffered exemplary punishment in the propaganda-driven show trials and a few of them were later beatified or canonized across the world (by the Catholic Church). Focusing on the literature originating in Slovakia, this meta-report aimed to summarize the key authors’ essential works and to examine the question as to whether—and to what extent—faith was a contributing factor in the collapse of the communist regime. What was the role of the churches and believers in the struggle against communism? How and to what extent believers were involved in the resistance movements and the political and economic transformation of their countries that were set in motion by the collapse of those regimes? Based on an analysis of hundreds of books and articles on the subject, essential ideas were extracted, categorized and presented. The works of the persecuted authors were the subject of a detailed qualitative content analysis. Thus, four overarching dimensions (philosophical, intimate, personal and social/political) and fourteen categories related to the experience of faith were identified. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exploring the Influence of Religions on Culture and Science)
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14 pages, 275 KiB  
Article
Understanding Folk Religiosity in the Philippines
by Juan Rafael G. Macaranas
Religions 2021, 12(10), 800; https://doi.org/10.3390/rel12100800 - 24 Sep 2021
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 30223
Abstract
This paper argues for the appreciation of Filipino folk religiosity as part of cultivating authentic faith expressions among Filipinos. It presents historical, anthropological, sociocultural, and theological views on significant folk religious groups, traditions, and practices in the Philippines, including but not limited to [...] Read more.
This paper argues for the appreciation of Filipino folk religiosity as part of cultivating authentic faith expressions among Filipinos. It presents historical, anthropological, sociocultural, and theological views on significant folk religious groups, traditions, and practices in the Philippines, including but not limited to the millenarian movements and popular Catholic feasts. Despite the varied influences and variegated Philippine culture, folk religiosity among Filipinos can be generalized as a syncretic blending of pre-colonial beliefs with the Catholic faith. As an academic and practicing Catholic, the researcher explores the folk religious elements present in the development of the millenarian movements, the unique faith expressions and influences behind folk Catholic feasts and celebrations, and probes deeper into the meaning of ordinary faith expressions. Coming from his own experiences and insights, he refers to previous scholarly works in discussing how spirituality or reverence to the sacred is inherently embedded in the folk religious ways, how the cultural Filipino traits manifest in the religious practices and vice versa, and how folk spirituality enables the expression of deep cultural and personal Christian faith experience. In conclusion, he maintains that millenarian movements are valid faith expressions that also celebrate independence and Filipino identity; traditional festivals and religious rites are the locals’ unique way of authentically expressing their faith, and; preserving folk religions and folk religiosity among Catholics is beneficial for engendering the growth of the faithful and the development of religion. A clear sense of folk religiosity is elemental in reappropriating religious dogmas and doctrines as the church and the faithful continuously study, dialogue, and fully experience life in the pursuit of approaching authenticity in faith, beliefs, and religions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exploring the Influence of Religions on Culture and Science)
8 pages, 210 KiB  
Article
Rosa’s Theory of Resonance: Its Importance for (the Science of) Religion and Hope
by Bojan Žalec
Religions 2021, 12(10), 797; https://doi.org/10.3390/rel12100797 - 24 Sep 2021
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 3049
Abstract
This article deals with the resonance theory of the German sociologist Hartmut Rosa, which has aroused a lot of interest among scholars in the humanities and social sciences, including researchers in the field of religion. The article focuses on its importance for religion, [...] Read more.
This article deals with the resonance theory of the German sociologist Hartmut Rosa, which has aroused a lot of interest among scholars in the humanities and social sciences, including researchers in the field of religion. The article focuses on its importance for religion, particularly the science of religion and hope. The author presents Rosa’s theory first from the anthropological and sociological aspect. He then turns to Rosa’s understanding of religion. On this basis, the author draws his conclusions, which are as follows: The main significance of the resonance theory for religion and the science of religion is in the rehabilitation of religion as an anthropological constant. It follows that Rosa’s theory of resonance is an important contribution to substantiating the importance of religion and supporting its cultivation. Secondly, Rosa’s theory is an important contribution and support to the flourishing of hope due to its scientific support for religion. Another contribution of Rosa’s theory to hope is that it helps us understand the connection between resonance, existential hope, and meaning, and thus contributes to our being more successful in developing existential hope and discovering the meaning of our lives and world. This is important for our quality of life. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exploring the Influence of Religions on Culture and Science)
16 pages, 290 KiB  
Article
Multicultural Society as a Challenge for Coexistence in Europe
by Nenad Malović and Kristina Vujica
Religions 2021, 12(8), 615; https://doi.org/10.3390/rel12080615 - 09 Aug 2021
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 4922
Abstract
The aim of this article is to show that the intercultural way of education, which includes the interreligious dimension, is a fundamental way to create and maintain conditions for coexistence in a multicultural society. The background of this claim is represented in the [...] Read more.
The aim of this article is to show that the intercultural way of education, which includes the interreligious dimension, is a fundamental way to create and maintain conditions for coexistence in a multicultural society. The background of this claim is represented in the belief that the starting point of every encounter with the other and the different should be the human being and its experience of humanity, not an intellectual polemic about doctrines and ideologies. Schools are particularly suitable for such a more personal manner of dialogue. The topic is discussed primarily in a philosophical way from a Christian (Catholic) perspective. The context of reflection is the European society marked by Christianity, secularization and, increasingly, Islam. Croatia is also mentioned, as the issue of multiculturality is becoming increasingly topical there. The context of cultural pluralism is presented first. Then, the necessity of dialogue based on the experience of everyday life is highlighted. The next section is focused on the analysis of the multicultural society’s need for values that are acceptable for all members of society in order to maintain social peace and mutual respect and cooperation. The following chapter deals with the difficulties and challenges of dialogue. Then, the section after that presents an analysis of the fundamental European documents that provide crucial guidelines for understanding religious and cultural pluralism and the role of religions in a multicultural and multireligious society as values on which society should be built. Finally, the place and role of religious education is discussed as a vital and unavoidable factor in co-creating the preconditions for appropriate coexistence in a multicultural society. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exploring the Influence of Religions on Culture and Science)
15 pages, 297 KiB  
Article
The Role of Catholicism in Shaping a Culture of Sustainable Consumption
by Ryszard F. Sadowski
Religions 2021, 12(8), 598; https://doi.org/10.3390/rel12080598 - 03 Aug 2021
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2971
Abstract
The paper presents the potential of religions, in particular Christianity, in shaping a culture of sustainable consumption (a culture of moderation). It focuses on the contribution of the Catholic tradition, which is, to some extent, complemented by statements representing other Christian denominations. Based [...] Read more.
The paper presents the potential of religions, in particular Christianity, in shaping a culture of sustainable consumption (a culture of moderation). It focuses on the contribution of the Catholic tradition, which is, to some extent, complemented by statements representing other Christian denominations. Based on an analysis of relevant sources, it identifies risks arising from the prevalence of a consumer culture, which results in the primacy of “having” over “being” and reduces man to a Homo consumens. Moreover, the widespread culture of consumerism is associated with a so-called throwaway culture dominated by a disposable mentality making use of things and people. It also points to one of the key elements of consumer culture (a culture of overuse) in the form of so-called neophilia, resulting in the weakening of interpersonal relationships, the atomization of societies, and depletion of the Earth’s resources, combined with reckless wastefulness. An analysis of consumer culture leads to the identification of elements that underpin a culture of moderation, being an antidote to dangers arising from the prevalence of consumer culture. The most important elements shaping a model of culture that is man- and environment-friendly include a new model of progress, a mentality of communion, and a new lifestyle. It is a model of progress, which is not limited merely to economics, but takes into account the need for integral human development and appreciates the spiritual and cultural sphere of life. In order to build a culture of moderation, a communion mentality is needed to restore interpersonal relationships and make man aware of his relation to the whole community of life. Another important element of a culture of moderation is a new lifestyle which takes into account all human needs, respects the potential of the natural environment, and is characterized by intra-generational and inter-generational responsibility. There is much to suggest that Christianity has the potential to make a significant contribution to reducing the culture of overuse and promoting a culture of moderation. The influence of Catholic thought on shaping a culture of sustainable consumption is illustrated by the introduction of restrictions on Sunday shopping in Poland in 2018. This case study shows the importance of religious arguments in introducing legal changes and their impact on promoting a culture of moderation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exploring the Influence of Religions on Culture and Science)
20 pages, 354 KiB  
Article
Preference for Religious Coping Strategies and Passive versus Active Coping Styles among Seniors Exhibiting Aggressive Behaviors
by Iwona Niewiadomska and Leon Szot
Religions 2021, 12(7), 553; https://doi.org/10.3390/rel12070553 - 20 Jul 2021
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2196
Abstract
This article is theoretical and empirical. The theoretical part presents issues related to experiencing stress (including ways of coping with experienced problems) and the relationships between preference for various coping strategies and human behavior. The empirical part presents the results of research on [...] Read more.
This article is theoretical and empirical. The theoretical part presents issues related to experiencing stress (including ways of coping with experienced problems) and the relationships between preference for various coping strategies and human behavior. The empirical part presents the results of research on the relationship between the frequency of seniors (n = 329) using 13 different ways to deal with experienced difficulties (including the strategy of turning to religion/religious coping) and 11 categories of aggressive behavior (retaliation tendencies, self-destructive tendencies, aggression control disorders, displaced aggression, unconscious aggressive tendencies, indirect aggression, instrumental aggression, self-hostility, physical aggression towards the environment, hostility towards the environment, and reactive aggression). The last part is devoted to a discussion on the obtained research results and the practical implications of using the strategy of turning to religion/religious coping in difficult situations as a factor protecting the elderly from aggressive behavior. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exploring the Influence of Religions on Culture and Science)
23 pages, 396 KiB  
Article
Corporealism as an Ontological Position and Its Involvement in the Thought of Tertullian
by Marián Ambrozy
Religions 2021, 12(7), 534; https://doi.org/10.3390/rel12070534 - 15 Jul 2021
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 3433
Abstract
This paper aims to examine the meaning, role, inspirations, and place of corporealism in Tertullian’s system of thought. The extent to which corporealism is a basic philosophical belief in Tertullian’s work and to what extent it is a particular element of his theological [...] Read more.
This paper aims to examine the meaning, role, inspirations, and place of corporealism in Tertullian’s system of thought. The extent to which corporealism is a basic philosophical belief in Tertullian’s work and to what extent it is a particular element of his theological doctrine is questioned. It presents the named ontological position as a rare specificity within the range of early Christian thought, especially in Tertullian’s works De anima and De carne Cristi. This paper makes a clear distinction between corporealism and materialism, as it tries to determine the degree of influence of Stoic philosophy, especially ontology, on Tertullian, as well as the influence of Aristotle in selected areas. In this context, his traducianism is also examined. In the ontological context, the status of the soul and God in Tertullian thought is also presented. In connection with the metaphysical problem of creation, the article also touches on the question of creatio ex nihilo as a problem on which Tertullian had to take a stand. It investigates the role of corporealism in Tertullian’s polemic against Marcion, Apelles, and the Valentinian Gnosis by mapping which elements in the teachings of these representatives and Gnosis, especially (but not exclusively) Valentinian, could provoke Tertullian to controversy. This paper holds the opinion that Tertullian’s corporealism was due to his theological views and controversy with opponents, which were used as philosophical inspiration, especially stoic inspiration, but was used mainly in the service of his theological thinking and strategic needs for argumentation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exploring the Influence of Religions on Culture and Science)
14 pages, 805 KiB  
Article
From the Philosophy of Cult to the Philosophy of History in the Work of Pavel Alexandrovich Florensky (* 1882 + 1937)
by Daniel Porubec
Religions 2021, 12(7), 533; https://doi.org/10.3390/rel12070533 - 14 Jul 2021
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1985
Abstract
P. A. Florensky dedicated nine writings of his rich interdisciplinary work to the phenomenon of cult, which were first published in a censored form in 1977. We turn our attention to one of these writings called Cult, Religion and Culture, published under [...] Read more.
P. A. Florensky dedicated nine writings of his rich interdisciplinary work to the phenomenon of cult, which were first published in a censored form in 1977. We turn our attention to one of these writings called Cult, Religion and Culture, published under the common title Philosophy of Cult, in which the author elaborates a distinctive concept of the cult as the primary activity of man and at the same time as the gift offered to him for his own sanctification. It is the sacred cult—sacra from where, according to the author, two other human activities originate: namely, the ability to create tools—instrumenta—and the ability to create abstract concepts—notiones. However, both human activities have to be understood as a process of disintegration of the cult—sacra. Thus, by prioritizing one of the three human activities mentioned above, we can recognize three historical periods in history. According to Florensky, the human ability to create tools corresponds to the era of historical materialism, the ability to create concepts corresponds to the era of ideologism, and ultimately, the primary human activity—the life of man in the cult and its culture corresponds to the sacral materialism or concrete idealism. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exploring the Influence of Religions on Culture and Science)
13 pages, 285 KiB  
Article
Beyond Secularization and Post-Secularity—Joseph Ratzinger’s and Józef Tischner’s Concept of a Breakthrough
by Jarosław Jagiełło
Religions 2021, 12(7), 530; https://doi.org/10.3390/rel12070530 - 14 Jul 2021
Viewed by 2041
Abstract
The inspiration to write this article was provided by the assessment made by Joseph Ratzinger/Benedict XVI: man of the Western civilization is undergoing a deep spiritual crisis. Therefore, conversion, a breakthrough, or spiritual renewal is absolutely necessary. Without this renewal, humanity will become [...] Read more.
The inspiration to write this article was provided by the assessment made by Joseph Ratzinger/Benedict XVI: man of the Western civilization is undergoing a deep spiritual crisis. Therefore, conversion, a breakthrough, or spiritual renewal is absolutely necessary. Without this renewal, humanity will become a victim of its own thinking, wanting and acting. As I search for a philosophical description of the breakthrough postulated by Benedict XVI, I refer to the original philosophical and religious thought of Polish philosopher Józef Tischner, who presents the question of the breakthrough at the anthropological-axiological level, where he exposes the issue of interpersonal correlation. The basis for the permanent existence of this correlation is man’s ethical awareness grounded in the ethic of dialogue. This grounding is particularly important, because it is a guarantee for overcoming internal and external threats to the existence of a religious community. Tischner presents the issue of this grounding against the background of the secularization of Western society. By distinguishing relative secularization from radical secularization, Tischner provides an insightful analysis of the phenomenon of the apparent and the true sacrum. For a real breakthrough, only the true sacrum, which Tischner believes to appear at the level of the Christian sanctum, is of primary importance. He understands sanctum as holiness grounded in goodness. It is holiness that is the real key to overcoming man’s multiple crises at the level of his thinking and religious life, at the level of both his private and social life. The presence of sanctum in human life constitutes, in Tischner’s view, the very core of the breakthrough and an expression of the important significance of religion in both individual and social human life. According to Tischner, it is owing to the presence of sanctum, i.e., that which is absolutely good, that man does not have to fall into the trap of post-secular thinking. For post-secularity, as Tischner believes, seeks ways to overcome the tension between the secularized world and the world of religion only in renouncing, for epistemic reasons, the absolutization of secular reason. In his opinion, however, this is not enough for believers and non-believers to follow a common path of cultivating the heritage of universal principles and values, historically expressed mainly in religious life. Only the capacity for selfless kindness can serve as the basic condition for both believers and non-believers to understand and preserve this heritage. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exploring the Influence of Religions on Culture and Science)
13 pages, 599 KiB  
Article
The Influence of Greek Spirituality on Russian Culture
by Ján Zozuľak
Religions 2021, 12(7), 455; https://doi.org/10.3390/rel12070455 - 22 Jun 2021
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2253
Abstract
In this article, we will analyze the influence of Greek spirituality on Russian culture in the second half of the 18th century, when Enlightenment ideas infused Russian society. Russian intellectual circles and the upper social class were inspired by Western categories of thought. [...] Read more.
In this article, we will analyze the influence of Greek spirituality on Russian culture in the second half of the 18th century, when Enlightenment ideas infused Russian society. Russian intellectual circles and the upper social class were inspired by Western categories of thought. The absence of a living theology that would give man the true meaning of life has caused tension and a great spiritual crisis in Russian society. One possible solution was to start a fight against the Enlightenment and reject any Western ideas. The second solution was to pay attention to the forgotten tradition and look for inspiration in it for the renewal of spiritual life. The spiritual renewal, known as the philokalic movement, leaned towards the second solution, building upon the Byzantine hesychastic tradition of the 14th century. This paved the way for a new era of Orthodox spirituality, which significantly influenced thinking and spiritual life in Russia. The movement of spiritual renewal is associated with the translation and publication of manuscripts written by Byzantine niptic authors, which were published in the book Dobrotolublye (gr. Philokalia). This significantly contributed to the spread of the hesychastic tradition in Russia and became an impetus for a return to Byzantine spiritual values. This article examines the spiritual, literary, and cultural activities of the most important centers of Russian Hesychasm, such as Sarov, Valaam, and Optina, and their influence on Russian society, which has not yet been recognized sufficiently. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exploring the Influence of Religions on Culture and Science)
22 pages, 444 KiB  
Article
The Contribution of Ss. Cyril and Methodius to Culture and Religion
by Martin Hetényi and Peter Ivanič
Religions 2021, 12(6), 417; https://doi.org/10.3390/rel12060417 - 07 Jun 2021
Cited by 16 | Viewed by 4159
Abstract
The Byzantine mission of saint brothers Cyril and Methodius had a major impact on the spiritual history of Great Moravia. In the centuries that followed, their works paved the way for the political and historical development of the Slavic nations, mainly in South-East [...] Read more.
The Byzantine mission of saint brothers Cyril and Methodius had a major impact on the spiritual history of Great Moravia. In the centuries that followed, their works paved the way for the political and historical development of the Slavic nations, mainly in South-East and East Europe. The mission, which reached Great Moravia in 863, had several dimensions. The most important were evangelism and the cultural and civilizational dimensions. Translations of the Gospel and liturgical texts into Old Church Slavonic intensified the religious life of our ancestors and laid the foundations of literature and culture for almost the entire Slavic world. From this point of view, research should be focused on the role and reflection of this historical and cultural heritage in the ecclesiastical and spiritual, national and cultural life of the Slavic nations. The aim of this article is to assess the significance of Christian and Byzantine cultural values in terms of the collective Slavic identity. The Cyrillo-Methodian idea manifests itself in the history of the Slavic world as a complex but solid foundation, capable of renewing the sleeping or inhibited energy and values in the areas of faith, culture, literature, arts, education, upbringing, as well as national consciousness. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exploring the Influence of Religions on Culture and Science)
24 pages, 464 KiB  
Article
The Analogical Model of Cognitive Principles and Its Significance for the Dialogue between Science and Theology
by Borut Pohar
Religions 2021, 12(4), 230; https://doi.org/10.3390/rel12040230 - 25 Mar 2021
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1739
Abstract
Analogical models in science enable us to understand unobservable theoretical entities. We need this basic understanding, even in the case of mental phenomena, where multiple cognitive principles are involved. In this article, we suggest an analogical model of cognition that incorporates basic insights [...] Read more.
Analogical models in science enable us to understand unobservable theoretical entities. We need this basic understanding, even in the case of mental phenomena, where multiple cognitive principles are involved. In this article, we suggest an analogical model of cognition that incorporates basic insights from the philosophies of science and theology, which could serve as a point of contact for the dialogue between science and theology. For this purpose, we presuppose six stages of understanding and the existence of six different theoretical cognitive principles that have their own characteristics, which coincide with some Biblical characters, theological reflections and scientific approaches to finding the truth. The choice of the analogical model and the cognitive principles is justified with their ability to organize, structure and make sense of different segments of scientific and theological knowledge, which otherwise seem confused, unrelated and without structure. The analogical model gives us a big picture of their relations and confirms the ability of the observable macroworld and phenomenological experience to assist us in understanding the realities that, at first sight, seem incomprehensible. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exploring the Influence of Religions on Culture and Science)
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13 pages, 225 KiB  
Essay
Following the Footsteps of John Polkinghorne: In Search of Divine Action in the World
by Miroslav Karaba
Religions 2021, 12(4), 263; https://doi.org/10.3390/rel12040263 - 09 Apr 2021
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2659
Abstract
John Polkinghorne was, undoubtedly, one of the most influential authors in the dialogue between science and religion. His attitude is characterized by a focus on the concept of kenosis in response to the ontological orientation of process philosophy and theology. God’s omnipotence implies [...] Read more.
John Polkinghorne was, undoubtedly, one of the most influential authors in the dialogue between science and religion. His attitude is characterized by a focus on the concept of kenosis in response to the ontological orientation of process philosophy and theology. God’s omnipotence implies the possibility that God created the universe as an evolutionary and autonomous world, which is not predetermined but has been created for openness. According to Polkinghorne, the position of this openness may be in the uncertainty associated with the world of quantum and chaotic phenomena. God’s self-limitation of his own omnipotence can thus be understood as an effort to respect the autonomy of natural processes and human freedom. Such an image of God is compatible with the current state of scientific knowledge, which itself becomes the starting point for thinking about God and his relationship to the world. Thus, despite the problems of some parts of its concept, Polkinghorne creates a comprehensive integrative approach to the dialogue between science and religion. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exploring the Influence of Religions on Culture and Science)
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