The Convergence of Faith and Reason in Light of a Hetero–Affirmation of the Encyclical Fides et Ratio

Abstract

The article discusses the philosophical aspect of building Christian humanism contained in the Encyclical Fides et Ratio. In analyzing the reciprocal autonomous relationship between philosophy and theology, a platform has been created for the synthesis of faith and reason, not however to be seen in light of hermeticism, but in keeping with the laws of authenticity. An authentic philosophy cannot become a
theology, similarly an authentic theology cannot become a philosophy. The principle of hetero–affirmation embodies the synthesis of faith and reason in such a way that the truth is liberated from a formalistic and alienated form of reality. An existentially relevant truth is one that does not exclude, one that has powerful integrative mechanisms, and that contributes to the meaningfulness of human life.