Christos Yannaras

Christos Yannaras

Greek Orthodox philosopher, theologian and writer
Date of Birth: 10.04.1935
Country: Greece

Content:
  1. Early Life and Education
  2. Academic Career
  3. Membership and Honors
  4. Political Views
  5. Personal Life and Legacy

Early Life and Education

Christos Yannaras, a Greek Orthodox philosopher, theologian, and writer, was born in 1935. He began his theological studies in Athens in 1954, where he became a member of the "Zoe" brotherhood. Later, he pursued philosophical studies in Bonn, Germany (1964-1967) and was influenced by Martin Heidegger's ideas. In Paris, he completed his doctoral dissertation on "The Metaphysics of the Body in Saint John Climacus" at the Sorbonne (1968-1970).

Academic Career

Yannaras became a full professor of philosophy at the University of Pantheon in Athens in 1982. He served until 2002, teaching courses in philosophical terminology, political philosophy, and cultural diplomacy. He also held a doctorate in philosophy from the University of Aristotele's Thessaloniki's spiritual school.

Membership and Honors

Yannaras was a member of the International Academy for Religious Research and an honorary doctor of the University of Belgrade. He was also recognized as an Archon Grand Rhetor of the Ecumenical Patriarchate in 2019 for his contributions to theology, philosophy, enlightenment, and culture.

Political Views

Yannaras held Euroskeptic views and admired Vladimir Putin as a great political leader. He believed Greece needed a "Putin" figure to enhance its international standing. He criticized the Greek government, judiciary, and institutions for accepting the terms imposed by the International Monetary Fund and the European Union. In 2019, he expressed his opposition to the Prespa Agreement.

Personal Life and Legacy

Christos Yannaras passed away on August 24, 2024, at the age of 89. His philosophical and theological writings continue to influence contemporary religious thought and dialogue.

© BIOGRAPHS