In epistemology it is unavoidable to be confronted with the problem of perspectivity: what we know and understand we know and understand always in a certain perspective. In present theology this insight is often applied. The conclusion is frequently drawn, that then there can be no true general knowledge: that knowledge is only relatively true, given prevailing perspectives. Perspectives stand out as a unified standpoint or point of view from which knowledge and understanding emerge. Knowledge thus understood does not stand in opposition to objective knowledge but is really its prerequisite. However, the question arises about the relation of the different knowledge people have in different perspectives. In that respect Leibniz has already put forward an unsurpassed model in his monadology: all possible perspectives can be related to each other. Leibniz's model on perspectives has to be seen in relation to his theory of knowledge, which gives an answer to the question, how knowledge in perspectives is related to general knowledge: knowledge and understanding aim at common and complete knowledge. The concept of God was indispensible for Leibniz's theory-of knowledge. This essay finally aims to show the plausibility of this (philosophical) concept of God and to formulate some consequences for theology. In relation to the other subjects at university (philosophical) theology has the special task to thematize the question of truth in any knowledge and the (interdisciplinary) connection between scientific disoveries.

Enthalten in:
Theologische Literaturzeitung; 2003/Nr.4 Monatsschrift für das gesamte Gebiet der Theologie und Religionswissenschaft (2003)

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Serie / Reihe: Theologische Literaturzeitung

Personen: Großhans, Hans-Peter

Schlagwörter: Verstehen Hermeneutik Erkenntnistheorie Rationalismus Erkenntnis