Thinking finitude and faith: Hegel’s epistemic reconciliation

Abstract

This thesis explores Hegel’s approach to metaphysics, theology and epistemology through a close reading of his Lectures on the Proofs of the Existence of God (1831). It focuses particularly on Hegel’s redemption of the role of ‘mediation’ in all human knowing, in response to the critical Kantian philosophy (which locates noumena beyond human grasp) and the Jacobian epistemology of ‘immediate knowing’ (which valorises direct revelation through the conduit of feeling to the detriment of critical thought). This research then aims to establish parallels between Jacobi’s epistemology of immediate knowing and epistemic values that are present in, and central to, contemporary theological and religious discourse – particularly within evangelical and Pentecostal traditions, where direct access to divine knowledge (either through scripture or experience) is foundational to assertions of religious authority and authentic knowing. In doing so, this research aims to demonstrate the valuable resources within Hegel’s Lectures on the Proofs as an applied form of Hegelian logic. It contributes to scholarly debate on Hegel’s relationship to metaphysics, challenging non-metaphysical readings of Hegel, while exploring the nuance of Hegel’s own approach within a wider context of debate. It offers insights into the historical reception of Hegel’s thought in its perceived implications for theology and metaphysics and argues for Hegel’s continuing relevance in debates that consider questions of religious authority, the authenticity of knowledge, the nature of truth and the role of critical thought within religious contexts.

Date of Award	2024
Original language	English
Awarding Institution	Western Sydney University
Supervisor	Dennis Schmidt (Supervisor)