From Existence to the Ideal
Subtitle: Continuity and Development in Kant's Theology (American University Studies Series VII, Theology and Religion)
Publisher: Peter Lang Publishing; Lang AG International Academic Publishers, Peter
Published: March 1995
Language: eng
Format: Hardcover
Number of pages: 183
ISBN-13: 9780820421063
Subjects: General; Contributions in theology; God (Theology); Kant, Immanuel; Religion - Socialissues; 1724-1804; 18th century; God; History of doctrines; Kant, Immanuel,; Proof; Religion
Description: In the past, one influential branch of interpretation claimed that the evolution of Kant's thought suffered a radical change which occurred during the year of the "great light." A careful analysis of Kant's pre-critical writings shows that his thought underwent gradual evolution. This investigation demonstrates that Kant's rejection of three proofs for God's existence was conceived around 1755, but was fully elaborated by 1762.

It shows, too, that although the proof from possibility suffers an important transformation, the change took place around the mid-sixties. This study breaks new ground by underscoring that the transformation arises - not from epistemological reasons alone - but from a need to redefine the terms "reality" and "existence." While offering the opportunity to meditate on these concepts, the book invites scholars to reimagine Kant's legacy.