MEDIEVAL PHILOSOPHY Meaning and
Definition
-
Medieval philosophy refers to the philosophical thought and inquiry that emerged during the Middle Ages, a period spanning from approximately the 5th century to the 15th century. It is characterized by a synthesis of classical Greek and Roman philosophy with Christian intellectual traditions.
Medieval philosophers sought to reconcile reason and faith, combining elements of both philosophical and theological thinking. They engaged in philosophical discourse on a wide range of topics, including metaphysics, ethics, epistemology, philosophy of mind, and political philosophy. One of the key concerns of medieval philosophy was the nature of reality and the existence of God, often exploring questions related to the relationship between faith and reason, the limits of human knowledge, and the immortality of the soul.
Prominent figures in medieval philosophy include Saint Augustine, who heavily influenced medieval thought with his emphasis on the primacy of faith and the pursuit of God; Saint Thomas Aquinas, known for his synthesis of Aristotelian philosophy with Christian theology; and John Duns Scotus, who challenged dominant scholastic views and contributed to the development of a more nuanced understanding of metaphysics.
Medieval philosophy played a crucial role in shaping Western philosophical traditions, serving as a bridge between ancient philosophy and the Renaissance. It laid the groundwork for later philosophical movements, such as Renaissance humanism and the scientific revolution, while leaving a lasting impact on the development of theology, intellectual discourse, and education during the medieval period.
Etymology of MEDIEVAL PHILOSOPHY
The word "medieval" comes from the Latin term "medium aevum", which literally translates to "middle age". In western history, the Middle Ages is a period that lasted from the fall of the Western Roman Empire in the 5th century AD to the beginning of the Renaissance in the 14th century. "Philosophy" originates from the Greek terms "philos", meaning "love", and "sophia", meaning "wisdom", hence referring to the love of wisdom. When combined, "medieval philosophy" refers to the philosophical thought and discourse that emerged during the Middle Ages.
