Toward an inclusive conception of eternity

Philosophical and theological conceptions of eternity frequently define it through a contrast with time’s transience. These conceptions reflect the widespread influence of Augustine’s idea of eternity, where eternity stands atemporally in opposition to time. Such conceptions are problematic for both...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:International journal for philosophy of religion
Main Author: Young, William W. (Author)
Format: Electronic Article
Language:English
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Published: Springer Science + Business Media B. V 2021
In: International journal for philosophy of religion
Standardized Subjects / Keyword chains:B Plotinus 205-270 / Augustinus, Aurelius, Saint 354-430 / Boethius, Anicius Manlius Severinus 480-524 / Eternity / Temporality
RelBib Classification:AB Philosophy of religion; criticism of religion; atheism
Further subjects:B Augustine
B Boethius
B Plotinus
B Time
B Eternity
B Foreknowledge
Online Access: Volltext (lizenzpflichtig)
Description
Summary:Philosophical and theological conceptions of eternity frequently define it through a contrast with time’s transience. These conceptions reflect the widespread influence of Augustine’s idea of eternity, where eternity stands atemporally in opposition to time. Such conceptions are problematic for both divine and human relations to the world. However, the work of Plotinus and Boethius shows that eternity can be conceived more inclusively—as transcending time, but nonetheless including temporal change and dynamism within its presence. This facilitates Boethius’ views of divine knowledge and human freedom in ways that are not available to Augustine. His work demonstrates how an inclusive conception of eternity can reconcile the pursuit of eternal wisdom with a commitment to ethical responsibility within the temporal flow of the world.
ISSN:1572-8684
Contains:Enthalten in: International journal for philosophy of religion
Persistent identifiers:DOI: 10.1007/s11153-020-09769-5