Karl Rahner and the Immortality of the Soul

Author:

Fischer, Mark F.

Format:

Journal Article

Year:

2008

Journal Title:

Saint Anselm Journal

Volume:

6

Issue:

1

Language:

English

Abstract:

Do the assertions of Karl Rahner (1) that the soul does not exist for its own sake but is a "principle" of being, and (2) that one must reject anthropological dualism in order to consider the body and soul a unity, endanger the traditional doctrines of the soul's independence and immortality? Rahner's Christology says no. As a principle of being, the soul "causes" the body to realize its potential for immortality. United with the body, the soul is the seat of human (distinct from animal) nature, capable of spiritual growth. Immortality and independence reflect the divine Word's entrance into human nature.

Who (Jesuits):

Rahner, Karl, 1904–1984

What (Subjects):

Theology -- Anthropology

Philosophy -- Psychology

Where (Locations):

Europe

When (Centuries):

20th century

Page Range:

1–12