Psychologia a teologia. Miejsca spotkania w antropologicznej refleksji J. Ratzingera

Abstract

Ratzinger shows a deep appreciation for Saint Augustine, the one among the Church Fathers who is known for his work on the interior, emotional world of man’s experience. He draws on the reflections of the renown 20th century psychologist Albert Görres and cites the works of C.G. Jung. By defending the truth about the creation, Ratzinger defends the meaning of the human psyche. Combining both psychological and theological research, he turns the reader’s direction to the reality of human sin and guilt, emphasizing the healing power of faith, prayer and the sacraments. Ratzinger also expresses his concern for people with mental disabilities, who he views as the privileged children of the Creator. He encourages mental hygiene and stresses how, when treated as a priority, the sacrament can have a positive infl uence on the mental well being of any person. He stresses the specifi cs of theology, which cannot be reduced to a science. Above all, the author emphasizes the truth about Christ, who brings salvation to humankind. Salvation cannot be attained through psychological means, without God, who is identified as the construction point of human existence.