Chapter Seven. Truth, Orthodoxy, And The Nouvelle Théologie: Truth As Issue In A “Second Modernist Crisis” (1946–1950)

Abstract

The concept of truth can cover different areas, depending on the point of view from which one approaches it. This chapter gives an overview of the different positions concerning truth that were taken during the theological crisis of the so-called nouvelle theologie . Such a survey goes hand in hand with the topic of orthodoxy: which viewpoint is orthodox? Who describes orthodoxy? And what is orthodoxy? In order to consider these questions, the chapter first presents a theological-historical survey of the nouvelle theologie . It then maps the different positions that were taken concerning the concept of truth in 1946-1950, particularly 1946-1947. Third, it examines whether or not, at the height of the polemic in February 1947, the nouvelle theologie - particularly its second phase - can be considered as a second modernist crisis. Finally the chapter presents some considerations on truth and orthodoxy in this polemic. Keywords: nouvelle theologie; orthodoxy; second modernist crisis; theological-historical survey; truth