BERNARD OF CHARTRES Meaning and
Definition
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Bernard of Chartres was a renowned philosopher and educator who lived during the 12th century. He was the head of the prestigious School of Chartres, which was known for its commitment to the revival of classical learning and its emphasis on human reason and intellectual inquiry. Bernard played a crucial role in the development of the Scholastic tradition, which sought to reconcile the teachings of Christianity with the rationality and logic of ancient Greek philosophy.
As a philosopher, Bernard of Chartres is primarily remembered for his concept of the "Bernardian universe," also known as the theory of perspectivism. According to this theory, human knowledge is imperfect and limited, and individuals can only perceive a small fraction of reality. Bernard famously stated that "we are like dwarfs standing on the shoulders of giants," suggesting that human understanding is built upon the cumulative wisdom and knowledge of those who came before.
This concept of humankind's intellectual progression has had a significant influence on subsequent philosophers and thinkers. It emphasizes the importance of the past in shaping the present and highlights the humility required to acknowledge that one's knowledge is built upon the achievements of others. Bernard's teachings have contributed to the understanding of historical continuity and the need to value and appreciate the intellectual achievements of earlier generations. The impact of Bernard of Chartres on medieval philosophy and education cannot be overstated, as his ideas formed a foundation for the intellectual developments that followed.
