scholasticism — A method of philosophical and theological inquiry that dominated medieval European thought, emphasizing dialectical reasoning and the reconciliation of Christian theology with classical philosophy
Part of speech: NOUN
Definition: A method of philosophical and theological inquiry that dominated medieval European thought, emphasizing dialectical reasoning and the reconciliation of Christian theology with classical philosophy
Pronunciation (IPA): /skəˈlæstɪˌsɪzəm/
Example Sentences
- The professor's teaching method was pure scholasticism - all theory and no practical application, just like a medieval monk debating angels on pinheads.
- Modern business schools try to avoid the trap of scholasticism by emphasizing case studies and internships.
- His argument was criticized as mere scholasticism - intellectually impressive but completely disconnected from reality.
scholasticism
NOUN[/skəˈlæstɪˌsɪzəm/]
A method of philosophical and theological inquiry that dominated medieval European thought, emphasizing dialectical reasoning and the reconciliation of Christian theology with classical philosophy
Medieval synthesis of theology and philosophy
Scholasticism bridges criticism and mysticism
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
Scholasticism derives from Latin scholasticus (relating to school or learning), which itself comes from Greek scholastikos (devoted to learning during leisure). The term evolved to denote the philosophical and theological tradition that developed in medieval universities and monastic schools, characterized by dialectical reasoning and synthesis of faith with reason.
Breakdown
scholasticus (Latin: relating to school, academic) + -ism (suffix forming a system, doctrine, or practice). The root scholasticus traces back to Greek scholastikos, from scholē (leisure, school).
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“The professor's teaching method was pure scholasticism - all theory and no practical application, just like a medieval monk debating angels on pinheads.”
“Modern business schools try to avoid the trap of scholasticism by emphasizing case studies and internships.”
“His argument was criticized as mere scholasticism - intellectually impressive but completely disconnected from reality.”
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