Two opposing tendencies characterize the intellectual situation of our time: With advancements in biogenetics and brain research, a scientifically objective self-conception of individuals is penetrating everyday contexts. This presents a challenge for philosophy in the form of a scientistic naturalism. On the other hand, there is a revitalization of faith traditions and the politicization of religious communities. From this arises a challenge for philosophy in the form of a fundamentalist critique of the metaphysical self-understanding of Western modernity. Jürgen Habermas explores the tension between naturalism and religion. He advocates for an appropriate naturalistic understanding of cultural evolution that takes into account the normative character of the human spirit.