Hedwig Conrad-Martius' Ontological Phenomenology

Hedwig Conrad-Martius' work provides a unique perspective on central issues in modern and contemporary theoretical biology and physics, based on her training as a realist phenomenologist. Her "realontology" offers a phenomenological account of the essence of appearing reality, leading to an analogical theory of "selfness" and an account of the coming to be of humans. She emphasizes the self-actuating and evolving powers of nature and a robust theory of creation, placing her in philosophical-theological discussions of demythologization and evolution.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 272 pages
Publication date: 09 May 2021
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This work serves as an introduction to the comprehensive metaphysical philosophy of nature developed by Hedwig Conrad-Martius (1888-1966). Thanks to her background as a realist phenomenologist, she possesses a distinctive perspective on crucial topics in modern and contemporary theoretical biology and physics. Within this text, readers will discover innovative theories regarding space and time, as well as the processes of development and evolution. Consequently, this work holds appeal to anyone interested in exploring the historical development of the phenomenological movement, as well as religious cosmology. The foundation of this cosmology lies in Conrad-Martius' "realontology," a phenomenological account of the fundamental nature of appearing reality. By fully explicating the modes of appearance of what is real, Conrad-Martius facilitates the unfolding of an analogical theory of "selfness" within the natural order, culminating in an account of the emergence of humans. For these individuals, she reserves the term "spirit" to describe their unique world- and self-manifestation.

A central aspect of Conrad-Martius' position is the revival of ancient metaphysical themes in fresh and transformative ways. Specifically, she emphasizes the concepts of potentiality and entelechy, which play pivotal roles in her philosophical framework. By recognizing nature as a self-actuation of world-constituting essence-entelechies, Conrad-Martius positions herself at the center of philosophical-theological discussions, such as the hermeneutical mandate of demythologization and the nature of evolution. Of particular interest is her unwavering emphasis on both nature's self-actuating and evolving powers, as well as a robust theory of creation. Through her work, Conrad-Martius offers a profound exploration of the interconnectedness of all things, challenging traditional understandings of reality and paving the way for new insights into the mysteries of the universe.

Weight: 454g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030448448
Edition number: 1st ed. 2020