An Introduction to Medieval Philosophy: Basic Concepts / Edition 1

by Joseph W. Koterski

Overview

By exploring the philosophical character of some of the greatest medieval thinkers, An Introduction to Medieval Philosophy provides a rich overview of philosophy in the world of Latin Christianity.

• Explores the deeply philosophical character of such medieval thinkers as Augustine, Boethius, Eriugena, Anselm, Aquinas, Bonaventure, Scotus, and Ockham
• Reviews the central features of the epistemological and metaphysical problem of universals
• Shows how medieval authors adapted philosophical ideas from antiquity to apply to their religious commitments
• Takes a broad philosophical approach of the medieval era by,taking account of classical metaphysics, general culture, and religious themes

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781405106771
Publisher:	Wiley
Publication date:	11/17/2008
Pages:	256
Product dimensions:	6.10(w) x 8.90(h) x 1.00(d)

About the Author

Reverend Joseph W. Koterski, S.J., is an Associate Professor of Philosophy at Fordham University. He also serves as the Editor-in-Chief of International Philosophical Quarterly and as Chaplain in Queen's Court Residential College for Freshmen.

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Table of Contents

Preface vii

Introduction 1

1 Faith and Reason 9

2 God 37

3 The Divine Ideas 61

4 The Problem of Universals 87

5 The Transcendentals 111

6 Cosmos and Nature 141

7 Soul 173

8 Conclusion 202

Glossary 206

Historical Figures 217

References 222

Index of Names 237

Index of Terms 242

What People are Saying About This

From the Publisher

"Strikingly clear, succinct, and erudite, this book will be treasured by beginners and established scholars alike. As the relationship of religious faith and the human sciences becomes an ever more pressing societal issue, contemporary philosophers will greatly benefit from Koterski's masterful exposition of the insights of medieval thinkers."
–Matthew Levering, Ave Maria University

"Father Koterski is a master of Jesuit pedagogy. His chapters introduce key themes that still dominate Western philosophy. No serious student of philosophy or theology should miss reading this book."
–Romanus Cessario, O.P., St John’s Seminary, Boston, Massachusetts

Editorial Reviews

"Another strength of the book is Koterski's skillful way of motivating philosophical interest in concepts and ideas that might otherwise seem arcane to the beginner . . .Koterski gives a thought provoking analysis of several basic concepts that permeate medieval thought and provides a thorough account of the varied sources that influenced reasoning about these concepts." (American Catholic Philosophical Quarterly, 1 October 2010)

“Lively, accessible, and well argued, this is a fine introduction that deserves a wide audience. Summing Up: Recommended.” (Choice Reviews, May 2009)

“Fr. Joseph Koterski, a philosophy teacher at Fordham University and editor in chief of International Philosophical Quarterly, has penned a lovely little introduction to the basic themes of medieval philosophy.” (First Things, January 2009)

 

From the Publisher