Humans and the de-creation of God in the contemporary society

Abstract

The contemporary era witnesses a profound shift in humanity’s relationship with the concept of God, characterised by the de-creation of traditional religious frameworks. This paper provides an overview of this phenomenon, tracing its background in the context of socio-cultural, philosophical, and scientific developments. The aim of this study is to comprehensively explore the de-creation of God in contemporary society, with three main objectives: analysing the contributing factors, examining its implications on religious institutions and spiritual practices, and investigating alternative expressions of spirituality. Employing a multidisciplinary approach, the literary method involves a synthesis of scholarly literature from sociology, philosophy, theology, and the natural sciences. Findings reveal the complex interplay of secularisation, scientific rationalism, cultural pluralism, and ethical critique in shaping the contemporary landscape of religious belief and spirituality. Despite the challenges posed to traditional religious institutions, the emergence of new spiritual movements and ethical frameworks signifies a potential for creative reimagining and exploration of human spirituality. In conclusion, this study contributes to a deeper understanding of the dynamic interplay between culture, belief, and meaning-making in contemporary society, shedding light on the transformative processes reshaping humanity’s conception of God.

Contribution: This study provides a deeper understanding of the changing dynamics of modern spirituality and religious belief, bringing valuable insights into the process of de-creation of God in the contemporary society. It prompts theological reflection on the impact of secularisation, scientific rationalism, and cultural pluralism, while exploring alternative spiritual expressions.