Abschied von der Säkularisierungsthese

Subsequent to Max Weber's interpretation, the theory of secularization pursues two aspects: the emancipation movement and individualization as well as the repudiation of transcendence. Supported by Friedrich Schleiermacher and Karl Barth, this essay reestablishes the idea that Protestantism is characterized by a specific rationality, thus making a more sophisticated understanding of secularization possible. As a result, transcendence can be affirmed without contrasting religion with emancipation and autonomy.