Autobiographical and Social Essays

Rudolf Otto was one of the most influential thinkers about religion in the 20th century. He is best known for his epoch-making book. The idea of the Holy, a path-breaking analysis of religion as a unique encounter with a numinous 'mysterium tremendum et fascinans. Until now critical studies have concentrated on Otto the theologian, philosopher, and historian of religions. But Otto was more; he was also an actor on the political, social, cultural, and ecclesiastical stages. His scholarly work should be seen as one facet of his broader, public activity. This collection of essays, introduced, selected and translated by Gregory D. Alles, aims to broaden the image of Otto available to English readers. It presents previously untranslated writings of Otto the politician, social commentator, and churchman. Also included are Otto's autobiographical reflections and a sampling from his late essays on ethics. In an informative introduction Alles outlines the discussions that Otto's ideas have evoked and traces the impact of Otto's thought on theology and the academic study of religion. He also examines criticisms of Otto's ideas and makes suggestions for future research.