[1] Hermann Kutter's theological outlook was molded by encounters with thinkers like Christoph Blumhardt and philosophical influences from Kant, Fichte, and Schelling.
Notably, his work "Das Unmittelbare, eine Menschheitsfrage" (1902) challenged prevailing theological intellectualism, advocating for a direct experience of the divine.
Despite this, Kutter's lasting impact on dialectical theology and his role as a prominent figure in Swiss religious socialism endure as key aspects of his legacy.
In the early 20th century, his work "Sie müssen" (1904) notably expressed his positive stance towards social democracy, framing it as a tool aligned with divine intentions.
Additionally, his active involvement with organizations like the Knights of St. John and YMI, along with volunteering for Meals on Wheels, underscored his dedication to community well-being.
Inspired by the eschatological ideas of Christoph Blumhardt, Kutter's theological approach emphasized a clear distinction between the Kingdom of God and the worldly realm.
His writings, such as "Das Unmittelbare, eine Menschheitsfrage" (1902), were instrumental in shaping early dialectical theology, influencing subsequent theologians like Karl Barth, Emil Brunner, and Eduard Thurneysen.