Hans Joas

Hans Joas, a German sociologist and Professor at Humboldt University of Berlin, was awarded an honorary doctorate by Pázmány Péter Catholic University (PPKE BTK) on December 14, 2024, in Budapest. The ceremony, presided over by Rector Dr. Géza Kuminetz, highlighted Joas's contributions to social philosophy and his critique of secularization theories. He was praised by Dean Nándor Birher and Tibor Görföl for his defense of religion's public role and his challenge to Max Weber's 'disenchantment' narrative.

• Born: 1948 in Munich
• Affiliation: Humboldt University of Berlin
• Honorary Doctorate: PPKE BTK (34th recipient, alongside figures like John Lukacs and Jean-Luc Marion)

Joas's research centers on reconciling religion and modernity, proposing a universalist ethos beyond the secular-religious dichotomy. His seminal work, The Power of the Holy, argues against the inevitability of secularization, emphasizing religion's enduring relevance in shaping ethical frameworks.

Scientific Awards:

• Honorary Doctorate from Pázmány Péter Catholic University

His lecture at PPKE BTK challenged the secularization thesis, suggesting modernization does not inherently diminish religion. Instead, he framed debates around universalism and particularism, urging re-examination of secular and religious foundations of ethical systems.