answersLogoWhite

0

In general, western medieval philosophy was heavily dependent upon ancient Greek philosophy. The doctrines of the ancient Greek philosophers from the pre-Socratics through Plotinus were extremely influential in setting the agenda for medieval philosophy. The first great Christian thinker was Augustine, whose own original thinking was heavily influenced by, on the one hand, Plato and Plotinus, and, on the other, by Paul's Christian writings. Augustine tried to use the categories of Greek philosophy to render Christian doctrine intelligible. By the time of Aquinas, many of the works of Aristotle, which had been preserved by Islamic scholars, had been recovered (whereas not many of Plato's dialogues were available). Aquinas was so heavily influenced by Aristotle that he simply refers to him as "the philosopher" in his writings. Like Augustine, Aquinas tried to make sense of Christian writings, but he also used Aristotelean categories to try to make Christian thinking consistent with what else was understood about the world. In so doing, he developed the greatest medieval synthesis. Aquinas remains the official philosopher of the Roman Catholic Church. In other words, Greek philosophy in general, and Aristotle's writings in particular, had a powerful effect on Aquinas's thinking.

User Avatar

Wiki User

16y ago

What else can I help you with?

Related Questions

Did Aquinas follow Aristotle?

Yes, Thomas Aquinas was heavily influenced by the work of the ancient Greek philosopher Aristotle. Aquinas incorporated many of Aristotle's ideas into his own philosophical and theological teachings, particularly in his synthesis of Christian theology with Aristotelian philosophy.


What has the author C J de Vogel written?

C. J. de Vogel has written: 'Greek philosophys' -- subject(s): Ancient Philosophy, Greek literature (Selections: Extracts, etc.), Philosophy, Ancient 'Theoria' -- subject(s): Greek Philosophy, Philosophy, Greek 'Plato'


Thomas Aquinas was influenced by what philosopher?

Aristotle Christian culture was influenced at the time by Plato, but the Muslims had more ancient greek works to draw from. Their theology did not preclude the study of nature. Avarroes from Cordoba, Spain and earlier Avicenna from Iran were strong influences for Aquinas' switch to Aristotle.


What were two of the main accomplishments of the ancient greek?

democracy and philosophy


Ancient Greek who wrote his symposium on the philosophy of art?

Plato


What innovations is most associated with ancient greek culture?

Philosophy


How did Thomas Aquinas bring together ancient philosophy and christian theology?

Thomas Aquinas synthesized the ideas of ancient Greek philosophers, particularly Aristotle, with Christian theology by using reason to demonstrate the compatibility of faith and reason. He believed that philosophy could illuminate theology and help strengthen religious belief. Aquinas sought to harmonize the teachings of the Church with the principles of reason and natural law through his extensive writings and works, such as the Summa Theologica.


Was Cicero Greek?

No, Cicero was Roman. Cicero could speak Greek and was educated in ancient Greek philosophy, poetry and history. He was important in the introduction of Greek philosophy to Roman society.


What are some recommended ancient Greek philosophy books?

Some recommended ancient Greek philosophy books include "The Republic" by Plato, "Nicomachean Ethics" by Aristotle, and "Meditations" by Marcus Aurelius.


What 2 ancient groups was humanism based on?

Greek and Roman philosophy.


Who is considered the father of western philosophy?

The father of western philosophy is often considered to be the ancient Greek philosopher, Socrates.


What has the author Alfred William Benn written?

Alfred William Benn has written: 'Early Greek philosophy' -- subject(s): Ancient Philosophy 'The History of English Rationalism in the Nineteenth Century: In Two Volumes ..' 'The Greek philosophers' -- subject(s): Ancient Philosophers, Ancient Philosophy, History 'Modern England'