The 'neo-orthodox' in Cyprus: Religious resurgence and western orthodoxy

Argyrou, Vassos

Abstract

This essay explores that resurgence of religion in the Greek-speaking world popularly known as ‘neo-Orthodoxy’. It distinguishes between two versions, one that broadly conforms to the stereotype of revitalised religion as a particularistic, exclusive and intolerant phenomenon and one that challenges the stereotype by maintaining a universalistic and inclusive attitude. The essay argues that although the latter version may appear as something of a paradox, there is nothing paradoxical or extraordinary about it. Christianity is a rationalised, universalised vision of the world and by definition it includes all, even the ‘misguided’. Nor is there anything extraordinary about the fact that its universalism is often compromised by historicity and the situatedness of life. Rationalised, universalised visions of the world are inherently unstable in this sense, but this predicament is not unique to Christianity or other religious traditions. It befalls also the tradition that presents itself as the very embodiment of tolerance and understanding, namely, Western humanism and its posthumanist version exemplified by environmentalism.

Citation

Argyrou, V. (2010). The 'neo-orthodox' in Cyprus: Religious resurgence and western orthodoxy. Journal of Mediterranean studies, 19(1), 27-42

• Journal Article Type: Review
• Acceptance Date: Feb 1, 2010
• Publication Date: Dec 1, 2010
• Deposit Date: Nov 13, 2014
• Journal: Journal Of Mediterranean Studies
• Print ISSN: 1016-3476
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 19
• Issue: 1
• Pages: 27-42
• Public URL: https://hull-repository.worktribe.com/output/463047
• Publisher URL: https://muse.jhu.edu/article/673383/pdf
• Additional Information: I can freely use the Work upon obtaining prior written consent from the Editor of the Journal of Mediterranean Studies, in which case a proper reference should always be made to the original source of publication and to the publisher. https://www.um.edu.mt/__data/assets/pdf_file/0004/216517/Copyright_agreement_general.pdf