Posted on 10/31/2008 11:24:11 AM PDT by Publius804
A Philosopher Reissues the Pope's Wager: To Live as if God Exists
He is the German Robert Spaemann. In a book about the "immortal rumor," always alive, always controversial, of the existence of God. Against the backdrop of the advice given by Benedict XVI "also to our friends who do not believe"
by Sandro Magister
ROMA, October 31, 2008 – A truly important book has just been released in Italy, after its publication in Germany. Its author is a prominent Christian philosopher, Robert Spaemann (in the photo). It is entitled "The Immortal Rumor" ("Das unsterbliche Gerücht" in the original German). This is how the author explains the title:
"That there exists a being who in our language is called 'God' is an old rumor that cannot be silenced. This being is not part of that which exists in the world. It must instead be the cause and origin of the universe. It is part of the rumor, however, that there are in the world traces of this origin, and signs that point to it. And this is the only reason why such different statements can be made about God."
The book, published by Catagalli in Italy, is the first in a series entitled, not by accident: "As if God Exists."
Living "as if God exists" – whether one believes in Him or not – is the paradoxical proposal issued by Benedict XVI to the culture and men of today.
Joseph Ratzinger formulated his proposal for the first time, speaking as a philosopher as well as a theologian, in the memorable address that he delivered in Subiaco on April 1, 2005, his last public address before being elected pope.
(Excerpt) Read more at chiesa.espresso.repubblica.it ...
Pascal’s wager.
That was very interesting. Thanks for posting.
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