b. 1940
John D. Caputo (b. 1940) is an American philosopher known for developing 'radical hermeneutics,' a synthesis of Heideggerian phenomenology and Derridean deconstruction applied to questions of meaning, truth, and religion. He is a leading figure in continental philosophy of religion, best known for his 'weak theology' or theopoetics, which reframes God not as sovereign power but as an unconditional call or event. His work has significantly shaped postmodern religious thought and the reception of deconstruction in Anglo-American philosophy.
Developed 'radical hermeneutics' synthesizing Heidegger and Derrida on the instability of meaning and interpretation
Formulated 'weak theology' — the idea that God is an unconditional event or call rather than an omnipotent being
Authored influential readings of Heidegger's mystical and religious dimensions
Brought Derridean deconstruction into sustained dialogue with theology and religious practice
Coined 'theopoetics' as a framework for approaching religious language outside metaphysical onto-theology