1. Concept and ancient origins
The two reference points for the variegated early modern discussions concerning the immortality of the human soul (Greek psychḗ, Latin anima) were the New Testament, which promises either eternal life or resurrection of the intact individual (Mt 22,23 ff.; 1 Cor 15,12 ff.), and the philosophy of Greek Antiquity. On the basis of his dialogues Symposium, Phaedon, and Phaedrus, Pla…