Kenosis and emancipation in the philosophy of Gianni Vattimo

Abstract

The aim of this article is to relate the notion of kenosis, on which Gianni Vattimo's hermeneutic conception of religion is essentially based, with the emancipatory pretension that arises from hermeneutic nihilism. In order to do so, we will trace this hermeneutic conception of truth that no longer violates us, on the basis of which the religion of pensiero debole is structured. Moreover, we will see how the hermeneutic conception of metaphysics, apart from presenting itself as the key to secularisation, will allow us to identify salvation with interpretation. On these general presuppositions of his philosophy, Vattimo announces the coming of Jesus as a hermeneutic phenomenon. Finally, we will have to ask ourselves whether the possibilities of this tragic approach to kenosis are taken to their ultimate consequences with the socio-political announcement of an emancipation of a hermeneutical nature.