Lecture 19 - Occam, Scotus, Bradwardine Flashcards
What is Occam’s razor in the context of theology in the high Middle Ages?
A principle emphasizing simplicity in theological explanations, leading to a shift in theological methods around the 1300s.
What characterized the shift in theological method in the early 1300s?
Theology became less detailed and more focused on being mathematized as problems to be solved.
What is the Via antiqua?
The ‘old way of doing theology,’ pursued by Dominican friars, emphasizing the character of God in salvation and grace.
What is the Via moderna?
A theological approach that emerged in the 13th century, focusing on God’s omnipotence and the relationship between faith and reason.
What did theologians in the Via moderna emphasize about God?
They argued that God’s omnipotence is the most important feature and starting point of theology.
Who is William of Occam?
1285-1347. A key figure in the Via moderna, known for emphasizing God’s unknowability and focusing on man’s will.
What is John Duns Scotus known for?
His impactful theology on God’s existence, simplicity, and the necessity of the incarnation and atonement.
What was Scotus’s view on the necessity of the incarnation?
He believed the incarnation was predestined and an end in itself, not merely a means to rectify the fall.
How did Scotus view merit?
Merit is ascribed value by God, not inherent to the act itself, emphasizing Christ’s obedience as the true merit.
What are the two kinds of merit according to Aquinas?
Condign merit (meritum de condigno) and congruant merit (meritum de congruo).
What did William of Ockham argue about God’s actions regarding salvation?
He argued that God could justify sinners directly without the need for the Church or sacraments.
What was Thomas Bradwardine’s theological focus?
He emphasized God’s grace and predestination, viewing man as helpless and worthless without divine intervention.
How did Bradwardine view sin?
He believed sin is a lack of good and embedded in the fabric of the universe, not created by God.
