Description

The problem of divine knowledge, focusing on questions of freedom and necessity, finds itself at the intersection of age-old discussions of logic, metaphysics, and ethics. The subject was discussed with particular clarity in the period 1250-1400. Many different solutions were put forward and criticized with an acuity and depth that was never reached again.
One contributor to the discussion, Marsilius of Inghen (d. 1396), is of special importance. He assimilated not only the nominalism and theological developments of the 14th century, but also the ideas of Thomas Aquinas and Bonaventure, resulting in the so-called via marsiliana. This study determines with great precision Marsilius's position in the debates in the period 1250-1400, often throwing new light on aspects of his philosophy and theology.
The wide scope of his work makes it suitable as a general introduction to medieval thought. Specialists will find it useful for its detailed and in-depth analysis of both maiores and minores. By its clear style and structure, this study will prove useful in contemporary systematic discussions of the subject as well.