Scholastic method

Definition

The scholastic method is a philosophical and theological approach that emphasizes dialectical reasoning to expand knowledge through a structured process of questioning and argumentation. This method became central in medieval universities, where scholars sought to reconcile faith with reason, drawing from classical philosophy, particularly that of Aristotle, to deepen understanding of religious and philosophical truths.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The scholastic method became prominent in medieval universities during the 12th and 13th centuries, marking a shift towards structured academic inquiry.
2. Scholastics would often use texts from Aristotle and church fathers, critically analyzing and interpreting them to resolve theological questions.
3. The process involved formulating a question, presenting arguments for and against a position, and arriving at a conclusion based on logical reasoning.
4. This method helped establish a rigorous academic culture that laid the groundwork for modern Western education by promoting critical thinking.
5. Despite its focus on rational analysis, the scholastic method maintained a strong connection to faith, aiming to harmonize religious belief with philosophical inquiry.

Review Questions

• How did the scholastic method influence the development of medieval universities and their approach to education?
  • The scholastic method significantly shaped the curriculum and pedagogical practices of medieval universities by introducing a systematic approach to learning. This method encouraged students to engage in dialectical reasoning, facilitating deeper discussions around philosophical and theological concepts. By focusing on critical analysis of texts, particularly those of Aristotle and the Church Fathers, scholars were able to cultivate an environment of intellectual rigor that defined university education during this period.
• Discuss how Thomas Aquinas utilized the scholastic method in his works and its impact on Christian theology.
  • Thomas Aquinas effectively employed the scholastic method in his writings by presenting questions followed by various objections and responses. In his 'Summa Theologica,' he systematically addressed fundamental theological issues using logical argumentation to reconcile faith with reason. This approach not only advanced Christian theology but also set a precedent for future thinkers, emphasizing that rational inquiry could coexist with religious beliefs.
• Evaluate the long-term implications of the scholastic method on modern philosophy and education.
  • The scholastic method has had lasting effects on modern philosophy and education by establishing principles of critical thinking and structured argumentation. Its emphasis on dialectic discourse laid the foundation for contemporary analytical philosophy, encouraging rigorous debate and exploration of ideas. Furthermore, this method's integration of faith with reason has influenced educational practices by promoting interdisciplinary approaches that value both empirical inquiry and ethical considerations in academic discourse.

Related terms

Dialectic: A method of argument or discussion involving contradictory ideas or opposing views to arrive at the truth through reasoned discourse.

Thomas Aquinas:

A medieval philosopher and theologian whose works, especially 'Summa Theologica,' exemplified the use of the scholastic method in integrating faith with reason.

Medieval Universities: Institutions that emerged in the Middle Ages where the scholastic method was employed to teach philosophy, theology, law, and medicine.