Late Medieval Philosophy: Abelard, Avicenna, Aquinas, et al.

The video explores the Scholastic period in medieval philosophy, highlighting the rise of universities and the resurgence of Aristotle's influence. Key figures like Peter Abelard, Avicenna, and Averroes are discussed, along with their contributions to logic, ethics, and empirical analysis. The development of universities and their curricula is examined, as well as the impact of thinkers like Thomas Aquinas, John Duns Scotus, and William of Ockham. The video concludes with the legacy of medieval philosophy in shaping modern thought and the Age of Reason.

What was a key characteristic of Peter Abelard's philosophical approach?

• He rejected Aristotle's works.

• He was known for his nominalist views.

• He emphasized the importance of authority over reason.

• He was a strong Platonist.

Which philosopher is credited with aligning Islamic theology with Aristotelian naturalism?

• Thomas Aquinas

• Avicenna

• William of Ockham

• Peter Abelard

What was a key belief of Averroes regarding the mind?

• All minds are one and eternal.

• The mind is variable and individual.

• The mind is irrelevant to religious issues.

• The mind is a mere name.

What was a significant outcome of the rise of universities in medieval Europe?

• The decline of Aristotelian studies

• The isolation of clergy from urban life

• The introduction of a structured curriculum including philosophy

• The rejection of Islamic philosophical influences

What was the role of Islamic philosophers in the European Renaissance?

• They were irrelevant to the Renaissance.

• They opposed the study of Aristotle.

• They isolated European thinkers from Greek studies.

• They prompted a resurgence in Greek studies.

Which philosopher is known for differentiating between rational and theological virtues?

• Thomas Aquinas

• Averroes

• John Duns Scotus

• Peter Abelard

What philosophical principle is often misattributed to William of Ockham?

• The principle of universals

• The unity of the mind

• The concept of moral luck

• Occam's Razor

How did John Duns Scotus view universals?

• As irrelevant to philosophical inquiry

• As shared natures with real existence

• As mere names without real existence

• As concepts that adapt to new information

Which philosopher was known for his criticism of overcomplicated ontological constructs?

• Avicenna

• Thomas Aquinas

• Peter Abelard

• William of Ockham

What was the impact of medieval philosophy on the Age of Reason?

• It hindered the development of modern philosophy.

• It set the stage for the Enlightenment.

• It led to the decline of universities.

• It rejected the ideas of the Renaissance.