Originally published as a series of exchanges in the Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera , it was later compiled into a celebrated book. Core Themes of the Dialogue
Some commentators suggest that those who "don't believe" often simply have a different, perhaps more "sophisticated" or "schematic" image of what faith should be, sometimes confusing it with strict obedience to dogma.
(translating to "What do those who do not believe, believe in?" ) refers to a profound dialogue between two of Italy's greatest intellectuals: the late semiotician and novelist Umberto Eco and the former Archbishop of Milan, Cardinal Carlo Maria Martini . ГЋn ce cred cei care nu cred?
Despite their differing starting points, both men find convergence on the "values of the millennium," such as the sanctity of life and the importance of hope in a technological age. Why the Topic Matters Today
Ultimately, the work by Eco and Martini suggests that even for those who reject religion, "believing" remains an inescapable human act—whether it is belief in logic, human rights, or the inherent value of the person standing next to us. În ce cred cei care nu cred? - Editura Polirom Originally published as a series of exchanges in
It explores whether points of commonality can exist between polarized groups—such as "neoliberals and neomarxists" or "believers and seculariists".
In modern philosophy, this often leads to discussions on "negative" vs. "positive" atheism—the difference between simply lacking belief and explicitly asserting that no deity exists. Despite their differing starting points, both men find
Eco argues that a "non-believer" (an atheist or agnostic) can still possess a deep moral sense. He suggests that morality can be rooted in the human body and our shared vulnerability. Because we all feel pain and require the recognition of others to exist as social beings, we can derive a "natural" ethics of empathy and respect without needing a God to enforce it.