Religiosity in the 21 ST century: Confluences between Cardinal Ratzinger and professor Michel Maffesoli

Abstract

This article aims to explore the similarities between the positions of Cardinal Ratzinger and Professor Maffesoli on religiosity in the postmodern context. Ratzinger, from a theological point of view and in his role as an ecclesiastical leader, conceptualizes religiosity as an intimate relationship with God, oriented toward the discovery of divine truth. This relationship is reflected in a set of practices and beliefs derived from faith in divine revelation. Ratzinger underlines the importance of integration into the religious community, especially in the Catholic Church, to experience the faith and as a contribution to collective well-being.

On the other hand, Maffesoli takes a primarily sociological approach, viewing religiosity as an inherently social and cultural phenomenon. From this perspective, religiosity manifests itself in adherence to rituals and in the formation and sustenance of communities. It contrasts contemporary religiosity, which emphasizes experience and emotion, with the modern view of rationality and objective truth.

Despite their different theoretical underpinnings and approaches, the two thinkers emphasize the importance of religiosity in contemporary society. They recognize the interplay between reason and emotion, as well as the reappraisal of mystery, ritual, and the creation of collectives with shared affinities. In addition, both suggest that interreligious dialogue could be the key to addressing the current religiosity crisis, although they differ in their views on its potential impact and scope.