The degree in Philosophy earned by Augusto Del Noce at the University of Turin in 1932 initiated a career dedicated to the intersection of Catholic thought and secular history. Over several decades in Rome, he became a central figure in Italian political discourse, focusing on the historical trajectory of atheism and the evolution of modern political doctrines.
Academic Trajectory and Early Research
Born in Pistoia in 1910, Del Noce spent his formative years in Turin. Between 1934 and 1943, he published numerous essays on early modern philosophy, earning recognition from scholars including Étienne Gilson and Henri Gouhier. His initial work focused on Malebranche, conducted under the supervision of Adolfo Faggi. Following the Second World War, his research shifted toward the tension between Christianity and various political ideologies.
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Del Noce held several significant academic posts throughout his career. In 1966, he accepted an appointment as Professor of the History of Modern and Contemporary Philosophy at the University of Trieste. By 1970, he transitioned to the Sapienza University of Rome. At this institution, he served as Professor of the History of Political Doctrines and later as Professor of Political Philosophy.
Political Engagement and Philosophical Contributions
Beyond his university roles, Del Noce engaged directly in public life. He served as a member of the Senate of the Italian Republic between 1984 and 1987. His scholarly output included major works such as The Problem of Atheism, published in 1964, and Catholic Reformation and Modern Philosophy, Vol. 1: Descartes, released in 1965. His later publications explored the concepts of secularization, addressed in The Age of Secularization, and the dissolution of revolutionary movements in works like The Catholic Communist and The Suicide of the Revolution.
Final Years
In his final period, Del Noce was a frequent contributor to Italian newspapers and magazines. He completed an extensive monograph concerning the philosophy of Giovanni Gentile and his ties to Fascism. Del Noce died in Rome on 30 December 1989, shortly after the collapse of the Berlin Wall, an event he had long analyzed through his philosophical framework regarding the outcome of modern rationalism.
Fast facts
- Born: 1910, Pistoia, Italy
- Died: 1989, Rome, Italy
- Education: University of Turin, 1932
- Political Position: Senator of the Italian Republic (1984-1987)
- Primary Academic Employer: Sapienza University of Rome
- Religion: Catholic Church
- Nationality: Italian
Questions readers ask
What subjects did Augusto Del Noce teach at the Sapienza University of Rome?
He taught the History of Political Doctrines and Political Philosophy.
Did Del Noce participate in the Italian government?
Yes, he served as a member of the Senate of the Italian Republic from 1984 to 1987.
Achievements
- Held posts at Sapienza University of Rome
