Gefahrlicher Gott, riskanter Teufel, normalisierter Mensch: Katholische Kontingenzdispositive im 19. Jahrhundert

In the 19th century, Catholics expanded their human scope of action, from a divine disposition of grace to a demomaniac disposition for exorcism due to social pressure and opportunities. This shift aimed to transform unpredictable danger into calculable risk, rather than focusing on social security.

Format: Hardback
Length: 617 pages
Publication date: 11 July 2022
Publisher: Vandenhoeck & Ruprecht GmbH & Co KG

In the 19th century, the human scope for action expanded significantly for Catholics, surpassing the divine. Initially, a divine disposition of grace prevailed, offering limited opportunities for action and participation, resulting in minimal pressure to act. However, as social pressure to engage increased and participation avenues expanded, a demomanic disposition for exorcism emerged. This disposition characterized an agonistic approach to the world, where individuals sought to confront and overcome perceived dangers. Consequently, Catholic social-ethical designs aimed not at social security but at transforming one form of insecurity into another: from unpredictable danger to calculable risk.

The religious-historical study delves into contemporary Catholic discourses to analyze how a normalizing set of rules emerged during the dominance of Ultramontanism. This period saw the human being, subject to the laws of nature, emancipate himself from transcendent powers. The study highlights the shift towards a more rational and humanistic understanding of faith, where individuals were empowered to navigate the complexities of the world and make informed decisions based on their own beliefs and values.

Overall, the 19th century marked a significant period of growth and development for Catholics, as they expanded their human scope for action and embraced a more rational and humanistic approach to faith. This shift paved the way for the modern Catholic Church and its continued influence on society.

Dimension: 237 x 160 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783525371015