Doctorate Theses

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Habermas, Taylor, Marion, and the Post-Secular Public Sphere: Towards Friendship, Hospitality, and Mutual Learning
(2022-11) 'Tringas, Konstantin F.'
What is the optimum way to accommodate religious and other diverse voices in the public sphere of modern representative democracies without at the same time endangering the secular or neutral character of its political institutions? In order to answer this question, the thesis discusses in turn the philosophy of Habermas, Taylor, and Marion. Habermas’ approach to this question has a number of limitations. In the thesis I propose the adoption of a more hermeneutic process of mutual learning and a more nuanced application of Habermas’ translation proviso. I argue that Marion’s philosophy provides a concept of love and charity which can be translated into friendship and hospitality in the public sphere. This case study provides a positive example of a religious contribution to the conduct of politics. I also argue that a more hermeneutic approach would lead to a more balanced relationship between universal laws and the affected individual.