God and Reason in the Middle Ages

by Edward Grant

Overview

The Age of Reason associated with the names of Descartes, Newton, Hobbes, and the French philosophers, actually began in the universities that first emerged in the late Middle Ages (1100 to 1600) when the first large scale institutionalization of reason in the history of civilization occurred. This study shows how reason was used in the university subjects of logic, natural philosophy, and theology, and to a much lesser extent in medicine and law. The final chapter describes how the Middle Ages acquired an undeserved reputation as an age of superstition, barbarism, and unreason.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780521802796
Publisher:	Cambridge University Press
Publication date:	07/30/2001
Pages:	408
Product dimensions:	5.98(w) x 9.02(h) x 0.39(d)
Lexile:	1340L (what's this?)

Table of Contents

Introduction; 1. The emergence of a transformed Europe in the twelfth century; 2. Reason asserts itself: the challenge to authority in the Early Middle Ages to 1200; 3. Reason takes hold: Aristotle and the Medieval University; 4. Reason in action: logic in the Faculty of Arts; 5. Reason in action: natural philosophy in the Faculty of Arts; 6. Reason in action: theology in the Faculty of Arts; 7. The assault on the Middle Ages; Conclusion: the culture and spirit of 'poking around'.

Editorial Reviews

"...Grant's book will produce some interesting future discussions. Inside and outside the classroom, it promises to be a useful catalyst for rethinking and debating a period often considered marginal." ISIS

"Grant's argument is sound and convincing. Furthermore, his work is strengthened by a keen ability for precision and detail as well as willingness to engage earlier and contemporary historians of early Christianity." American Historical Review

"...the book remains a rich resource for examples of intellectual life in medieval universities, and succeeds in its purpose in shedding light on the medieval origins of modern science." Sixteenth Century Journal

"Grant's subversive history is persuasive, enlightening, and copiously documented." - Brian J. Shanley, O.P., The Catholic University of America

From the Publisher