scholasticism

[ skuh-las-tuh-siz-uhm ]

noun

1. (sometimes initial capital letter) the system of theological and philosophical teaching predominant in the Middle Ages, based chiefly upon the authority of the church fathers and of Aristotle and his commentators.
2. narrow adherence to traditional teachings, doctrines, or methods.

scholasticism

/ skəˈlæstɪˌsɪzəm /

noun

1. sometimes capital the system of philosophy, theology, and teaching that dominated medieval western Europe and was based on the writings of the Church Fathers and (from the 12th century) Aristotle
2. strict adherence to traditional doctrines

scholasticism

1. The philosophy and theology , marked by careful argumentation, that flourished among Christian thinkers in Europe during the Middle Ages .

Notes

Central to scholastic thought is the idea that reason and faith are compatible. Scholastic thinkers such as Thomas Aquinas tried to show that ancient philosophy, especially that of Aristotle , supported and illuminated Christian faith.

Other Words From

• anti·scho·lasti·cism noun
• proscho·lasti·cism noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of scholasticism¹

First recorded in 1750–60; scholastic + -ism

Example Sentences

But his most influential work was connected with the relations between Jewish philosophy and the medieval scholasticism.

From Project Gutenberg

In Scholasticism he founded a school of his own, and modified Molinism by his system of Congruism.

From Project Gutenberg

And the modern world has overthrown this spirit of scholasticism.

From Project Gutenberg

Both of them were disgusted with Aristotle and with his formal logic, particularly with the subtleties of scholasticism.

From Project Gutenberg

He attacked scholasticism with much vigour, and censured the philosophy of Aristotle, the admired of the schoolmen.

From Project Gutenberg