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Can finite humans grasp universal truth? Is it possible to think beyond the limits of reason? Are we doomed to failure because of our finitude? In this clear and accessible book, Barnabas Aspray presents Ricœur's response to these perennial philosophical questions through an analysis of human finitude at the intersection of philosophy and theology. Using unpublished and previously untranslated archival sources, he shows how Ricœur's groundbreaking concept of symbols leads to a view of creation, not as a theological doctrine, but as a mystery beyond the limits of thought that gives rise to philosophical insight. If finitude is created, then it can be distinguished from both the Creator and evil, leading to a view of human existence that, instead of the 'anguish of no' proclaims the 'joy of yes.'
The tensions between our two authors start to rise. Ruse dismisses natural theology and proofs for the existence of God. Faith or nothing, and that means nothing because faith does not work. Davies responds by pointing out that there is biblical evidence for natural theology, and turns to Aquinas for guidance. The saint agrees that faith trumps reason and is enough alone for Christian belief, but argues also that reason, natural theology, has its place. It can supplement and back up the commitments through faith. There is therefore no conflict between reason and faith. Both have their role. In any case, argues Davies, scientists make faith commitments, having to start somewhere without prior proof, so in the end science is in the same business as religion. Ruse responds that the commitments of science and the commitments of religion are entirely different. The Christian cannot end the case by using this line of argument.
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