Peter Abelard & Nominalism PDF

PETER ABELARD AND NOMINALISM By Jasmine Vergara and Andrei Acluba Who Was Peter Abelard? Born: 1079 in Le Pallet, France Died: 1142 in Cluny, France Occupation: Philosopher, Theologian, and Logician Famous for: His controversial ideas, logical writings, and the love affair with Héloïse....

PETER ABELARD AND NOMINALISM By Jasmine Vergara and Andrei Acluba Who Was Peter Abelard? Born: 1079 in Le Pallet, France Died: 1142 in Cluny, France Occupation: Philosopher, Theologian, and Logician Famous for: His controversial ideas, logical writings, and the love affair with Héloïse. Key Works: Sic et Non (Yes and No), Historia Calamitatum (The Story of My Misfortunes)  What Is Nominalism? Nominalism: A philosophical theory that denies the existence of universal concepts outside of individual objects. Basic Idea: Only individual objects are real, and universals (like "redness" or "humanity") are just names (Latin: nomina). Abelard's Position: He argued against extreme realism (the idea that universals exist independently) and developed a moderate form of nominalism. 'Nominalism' refers to a reductionist approach to problems about the existence and nature of abstract entities; it thus stands opposed to Platonism and realism. Abelard’s Approach to Nominalism Universals exist, but only as names or mental concepts, not as independent realities. “By universal I mean a word that is predicated of many.” Example: "Humanity" doesn't exist as a thing in itself but refers to all individual humans.  Abelard’s Contributions Dialectical Method: Abelard emphasized using logic and debate (dialectic) to resolve contradictions in theology and philosophy. Moral Philosophy: He believed intention was more important than action in determining sin. Famous Saying: "It is by doubting that we come to investigate, and by investigating that we recognize the truth."  Abelard’s Controversies Condemned by Church: His ideas were often deemed heretical, especially for challenging established authorities. Relationship with Héloïse: Known for a passionate and tragic love story, later became a monk and nun. Legacy of Abelard and Nominalism Influence: Abelard’s ideas helped shape medieval logic and were a precursor to later developments in Nominalism. Importance: His work bridged the gap between classical philosophy and later scholasticism. “Constant and frequent questioning is the first key to wisdom.” Thank You