The Seeds of Modern Existential Philosophy in St. Augustine

Abstract

This article delves into Augustine’s doctrine from anthropological and cognitive perspectives within the framework of existential philosophy. Central to this analysis is Augustine’s stance on transcendence and his adoption of a bottom-up approach to anthropology. The article explores the existential aspects of human experience, examining how Augustine’s conception aligns with the existential movement’s focus on individual crises. The relevance of his doctrine lies in its depiction of human positivity stemming from a metaphysical source—God, who serves as the unconditioned model of human fullness. Through an exploration of Augustine’s views on human emotions and their conditions, the author explains the parallels with the existential movement focusing on individual situations. In this context, what warrants close attention is the principle of the significance of critical inquiry and analytical rigor in the pursuit of truth. The very process of seeking truth can lead to an improvement in understanding and to the discovery of genuine facts. Through a synthesis of critical thinking, analysis, and research, individuals can navigate through uncertainty and arrive at deeper insights into the human condition. Augustine’s anthropological analysis of human existence is intertwined with reflections on the transient nature of life and the pursuit of meaning. By situating human existence within the broader framework of metaphysical realities, Augustine underscores the positive aspects of human nature emanating from a source beyond the material realm. His doctrine serves as a testament to the enduring importance of metaphysical inquiry in contemporary philosophical discourse.