Ep. #133 – Apophaticism, Negative Theology, & Philosophical Analysis w/ Dr. Simon Hewitt
Summary
What is apophaticism and why is it relevant to the Christian tradition? Isn’t apophaticism self-contradictory since it talks about God and says we can’t talk about God? How should we understand Scripture with an eye on apophaticism? What philosophical analysis can we bring to bear in our examination of apophaticism? Dr. Hewitt joins me to discuss his new book on these topics.
Guest Bio
Dr. Simon Hewitt earned his PhD from the University of London. He specializes in philosophy of language, philosophy of logic and mathematics, metaphysics, philosophy or religion, and analytic theology. Currently, he is a research fellow at the University of Leeds.
Topics
- What is your book on “Negative Theology” about and what was your purpose in writing it?
- Why should Christians care about this subject?
- How do you answer the worry that apophaticism is self-contradictory?
- Is it true in your view that Muslims and Christians adore the one God?
- How might we view God-talk and Scripture and other religious contexts?
- What does apophaticism say about divine mysteries?
- How can God be simple and triune?
Resources
Negative Theology and Philosophical Analysis: Only the Splendour of Light by Dr. Simon Hewitt
Dr. Simon Hewitt’s university webpage
Dr. Simon Hewitt’s publications (Personal website)
God Matters by Fr. Herbert McCabe O.P.
Related Episodes
Ep. #108 – Is God a Person? w/ Dr. Simon Hewitt
Ep. #110 – The Life & Thought of Fr. Herbert McCabe w/ Dr. Manni
