A presença da ausência: contribuições de Rubem Alves para uma Ciência da Religião

Abstract

Religious Studies is a relatively new discipline in Brazil, constituted by the interests of researchers from varying different fields related to the religious phenomenon. That fact results in short efforts in search of epistemologies which may safeguard an uniqueness for this area of study. In this sense, the purpose of this publication is to think from Rubem Alves to a theoretical-methodological approach to the Science of Religion, which takes into account problematics related to the definition of its object - the religion - and the scholars' intended objectives. To this end, we propose an anthropology elaborated through a structural reading of the Alvesian bibliography, which presents the body and human desires as essential elements. Subsequently, at Alves's works stand out a meaning and delimitation of the religious phenomenon that is perceived as a distinctive language. Moreover, anchored in the philosophy of science of Rubem Alves, the scientists of religion are challenged to exteriorize their desires and values, enabling approaches to religion that make evident such predicatives, making the researchs effectives towards a humanitarian commitment.