Panel: ETHICAL ANTHROPOLOGIES FOR THE 21ST CENTURY



810.1 - TOWARDS AN ANTHROPOLOGY OF DIVERSITY AND INTERCONNECTEDNESS

AUTHORS:
Salfinger M. (Universität Wien ~ Vienna ~ Austria)
Text:
An anthropology of diversity and interconnectedness is crucial for theological ethics as it aligns with the realities of human diversity and interconnectedness as reality of life, enabling theological ethics to address contemporary challenges more effectively. recognizes the complexity of human existence, integrating material, spiritual, social, and cultural dimensions into a unified understanding of humanity. It rejects rigid dichotomies such as spirit versus body or reason versus emotion, instead valuing the coexistence of diverse and sometimes conflicting aspects of human life, such as good and evil, love and hatred, and peace and violence. Traditional anthropologies, often rooted in androcentric, dualistic, and essentialist paradigms, have historically excluded marginalized groups, perpetuated patriarchal structures and contributed to the exploitation of nature by human beings. Such dualistic anthropological frameworks limited the ability of theological ethics to engage with the lived experiences of all individuals and cultures. The anthropological approach of the Brazilian ecofeminist Ivone Gebara emphasizes the acceptance of human ambivalence and the celebration of diversity as intrinsic to creation. It calls for a shift from idealistic anthropologies, which often project unattainable perfection, to realistic ones that engage with the lived realities of individuals and communities. Such an anthropology fosters inclusivity, cultural plurality, and gender justice, while also integrating insights from natural and social sciences to address the complexities of human life. As theological ethics seeks to provide moral guidance on living a good and just life, and this requires an anthropological framework that reflects the complexity, diversity, and interconnectedness of human experiences. It promotes the recognition of diverse identities and experiences, allowing theological ethics to better reflect on the "good life" and offer moral guidance that is just, inclusive, and attuned to the realities of human existence.