1. Religion & Spirituality
Scholasticism
<Back to Last Page >     <Glossary Index>

 Related Terms
Christianity
Renaissance

 

Definition:
Scholasticism was a medieval Christian school of philosophy and theology whose high point coincided with the rise of universities during the 12th and 13th centuries. The name was derived from the fact that those involved were the "Schoolmen" who taught at cathedral schools and universities. These philosophers sought to organize and systematize every aspect of Christian belief.

Scholasticism developed a poor reputation after the coming of the Renaissance, but scholastic writers produced a lot of important philosophy which merits consideration.

Also Known As: none

Alternate Spellings: none

Common Misspellings: none

Related Resources:

What is Christianity?
What are the various Christian groups, denominations, sects and heresies? What are some key concepts in Christian theology? What are some of the most important events in Christian history? All of this and more are covered in the Christianity FAQ.

What is the Philosophy of Religion?
Sometimes confused with theology, the Philosophy of Religion is the philosophical study of religious beliefs, religious doctrines, religious arguments and religious history. The line between theology and the philosophy of religion isn't always sharp, but the primary difference is that theology tends to be apologetical in nature, committed to the defense of particular religious positions, whereas Philosophy of Religion is committed to the investigation of religion itself, rather than the truth of any particular religion.

What is Theism?
What is the difference between monotheism and monolatry? Between pantheism and panentheism? How about between animism and shamanism? Or theism and deism? What the heck is henotheism?

What is Religion?
A system of human beliefs, ideals and practices which is harder to define than it may at first appear. Read more about how dictionaries, scholars and others have tried to define and explain religion.

<Back to Last Page >     <Glossary Index>

Discuss in my forum

©2012 About.com. All rights reserved.

A part of The New York Times Company.