Abstract:
This work is an anthropological survey that exposes some features of human condition in
postmodernity. The first part begins with two approaches: it starts by analyzing the anthropological lurch
after the inception of left Hegelianism (FEURBACH and MARX) and thought of the aristocratic philosopher
NIETZSCHE, highlighting the rupture with God and the increase in man s confidence in his potential, even
regarding his redemption. Special attention is paid to some of this lurch s later developments, such as
the weakening of being , which ensues after the rupture with the buoys that previously ensured its
dignity. It concludes by examining the development of modern thought and its promising project for the
progress of science and economy and for the strengthening of the state. The first part ends by
contemplating some issues regarding the relationship between modernity and postmodernity, the
mishaps, reform, and (dis)continuity, briefly touching upon some features of the human condition in the
so-called postmodernity. In the second part, four eminent contemporary thinkers are considered:
KONRAD LORENZ, PETER SINGER, RICHARD RORTY, and CHARLES MELMAN. Contributions for this survey are
sought in their works, tracing different reflections that spring from man s inquiry into his existential
condition. The works by the first three are inspected for new understandings that arise about the human
being, which have replaced old concepts (sin, dignity and worth of life, truth, and solidarity), as well as
foundations and justifications, giving them new meanings. Finally, MELMAN s critical analysis on the
postmodern man is contemplated: the man without gravity. In the third and last chapter, the
anthropological thoughts of two theologians, GOTTFRIED BRAKEMEIER and EULER WESTPHAL, are
meditated upon, highlighting the issues on the human condition in postmodernity. The ambiguity of
postmodern human existence is evidenced: neither is it possible to demonize this new stage of human
history, nor should one be mislead by all the benefits stemming from the conveniences and discoveries
with which one is bestowed. The work concludes by reflecting on some features of the human condition
in postmodernity and by raising questions that were discussed earlier. In this context, theology is
characterized as a critical science whose purpose is to fight for the reclaiming and the preserving of the
sacredness of the human life and the cosmos. Furthermore, theology contributes for an anthropological
analysis that contemplates the religious dimension as an essential component of man, expressed by
promise, messianic expectation and eschatological hope; these expressions, both in modernity and
postmodernity, are transferred from God to the human potential of creating/establishing, by means of
institutions and the biotechnological science, the kingdom of heavens on earth.
