Topic: Process and Neoplatonic Theologies: Panentheism, Theodicy, and Ecology

Presenters: Jared Morningstar

In this presentation, Jared Morningstar will explore the resonances and contrasts between process theism and theologies influenced by Neoplatonic thought. He will show how Neoplatonic theologies think about the Divine and the cosmos in valuable ways that are distinct from the rigid “classical theism” process thinkers rightly critique.  Jared will explore the valuable contributions Neoplatonic thought can have on areas of concern for process thinkers such as the God-world relation, the problem of evil, and ecological awareness. He will also suggest ways that Neoplatonic and process perspectives can balance each others’ weaknesses and blindspots. 

Jared is an independent scholar living in Madison, Wisconsin with academic interests in philosophy of religion, Islamic studies, comparative religion, metamodern spirituality, and interfaith dialogue. His work in these areas seeks to offer robust responses to issues of inter-religious conflict, contemporary nihilism, and the “meaning crisis,” among other things. Jared graduated from Gustavus Adolphus College in 2018 with degrees in religion and Scandinavian studies and currently works for the Center for Process Studies, the Cobb Institute, and the Psychedelic Medicine Association. 

To get a head start exploring Jared’s topic for the day, download his more detailed description.  Also, he suggests these relevant resources:  

Parsing Process and Traditional Theodicies: A Hope for Synthesis and Collaboration;

Seeing Beauty in All People through the Mystical Philosophy of Plotinus (on Open Horizons).

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