Skip to content

Christianity in the West, opens up a perspective of depth…

“Christianity in the West, opens up a perspective of depth into what it means to be a self. And that depth of the self is something that is experienced in the sight of God. So that the great thinkers of self and subjectivity are Paul and Augustine. They look at the self from the perspective of God…” quote by Simon Critchley
Download Open image
“Christianity in the West, opens up a perspective of depth into what it means to be a self. And that depth of the self is something that is experienced in the sight of God. So that the great thinkers of self and subjectivity are Paul and Augustine. They look at the self from the perspective of God and they find themselves wretched and interesting. Constituted by conflictual desires.”

Simon Critchley

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

He argues that Western Christianity frames the self through God, revealing conflictual desires and both wretchedness and interest.

In simple terms: God shapes self‑understanding, exposing inner conflict.

Key Takeaway

Consider divine perspective on self.

Themes

theology philosophy identity conflict desire

Mood

analytical thoughtful

Type

philosophical theological

When to use this quote

  • Personal reflection
  • academic study
  • spiritual practice

Key Concepts

Subjectivity divine gaze

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does God influence self‑view?
  • What conflicts arise from desire?
A Different Perspective

May overlook secular self‑concepts.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Simon Critchley

Explore all 57 Simon Critchley quotes

More Augustine quotes

Browse all 115 Augustine quotes