Traces the links between French philosopher Alain Badiou and Pauline theology in the face of Nietzsche's proclamation of the death of God. This title presents Badiou's interpretation of Nietzsche's proclamation of the death of God. It outlines the life and work of Badiou. It discusses Badiou's relationship to Pauline theology.
The French philosopher Alain Badiou (born 1937), is one of the main representatives of a recent philosophical homage to Saint Paul. Yet, Badiou is not a believer in the traditional sense, let alone a Christian philosopher. On the contrary, he rejects transcendence and pleads for a radical this-worldliness.
This does not mean, however, that his work is of no use to theologians, though a theological engagement with him will necessarily take some time. This book takes the first steps in that direction. It focuses on Badiou's ontology, because his challenge to theology, and more in particular to the doctrine of God, is to be found at this level of his system. The starting point is Badiou's claim that true religion and true faith are no longer possible. This claim is evaluated in three parts: the theological context in which ontology becomes necessary; why we should turn to Badiou as a plausible source for such an ontology; and Badiou's atheist stance and its implications. Depoortere shows that Badiou's atheist ontology can nevertheless be opened towards God.
'Why theology have to discuss with a post-maoist, atheist philosopher and mathematician, even if he is shiny, famous and influential? How can such an encounter become a "theological promise"? In his book Badiou and Theology, F. Depoortere took up the challenge and gave the proof that such a conversation can lead to a high-level intellectual debate as well as an authentic theological research. Badiou meets Theology through different levels: definition of the subject, definition of the infinite and its relation with God, possibility of a true faith after the death of the living God of religion, Paul's achievements. F. Depoortere shows an impressive skill to sustain the conversation on the various fronts opened by Badiou's thought: philosophy, mathematics and theology. His book is a brilliant example of the way Theology has to face contemporary intellectual challenges".' - Benoit Bourgine, Catholic University Leuven, Belgium
