An Introduction to Medieval Philosophy - by Joseph W Koterski (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

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

From the Back Cover

The centuries between the fall of the Roman Empire and the dawn of the Renaissance were times of extraordinarily rich intellectual ferment. During this period Christian philosophers and theologians struggled with transcendent questions in philosophy and religion by engaging in debates that advanced long disputed questions. In the process they set the stage for the world of modern thought by their transformation of ideas from antiquity. Reflecting religion's profound influences on Europe during the Middle Ages, An Introduction to Medieval Philosophy provides a rich overview of philosophy in the world of Latin Christianity.

Arranged thematically around ideas that persistently fascinated medieval philosophers, the text explores in depth such fundamental concepts as Faith and Reason, God, the Divine Ideas, Universals, Transcendentals, Cosmos and Nature, and the Soul. The resolution of theological questions invariably required the careful precision of philosophical distinctions. This book analyzes the ways in which some of the greatest medieval thinkers contributed to the discussion of each of these topics--from Augustine of Hippo and Boethius to Aquinas, Scotus, and William of Ockham. Lucid and insightful, An Introduction to Medieval Philosophy offers an illuminating window into the minds of the medieval philosophers who bridged the ancient and modern worlds and developed ideas that have shaped the course of Western thought.

Review Quotes

"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)

"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

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.