History of Philosophy

John Marenbon returns to the podcast to discuss Abelard's views on necessity and freedom.

Peter Abelard sets out an innovative ethical theory that identifies intentions as the core of moral life.

Peter Abelard and Heloise prove themselves to be fascinating thinkers as well as star-crossed lovers.

Abelard and other logicians of the 12th century argue over the status of universals: are they words or things?

Anselm expert Eileen Sweeney discusses his approach to philosophy and the devotional aspect of his works.

Anselm offers more than his famous ontological argument, including a subtle account of human freedom.

Peter Damian takes up a question with surprising philosophical implications: can God restore virginity to a woman who has lost it?

Little-known authors prepare the way for scholasticism with glosses on logic, metaphysical debate, and a poem about a cat.

Stephen Gersh speaks with Peter about the influence of Platonism in the Middle Ages.

We celebrate reaching episode 200 with a special double interview on the problem of defining medieval philosophy.

Eriugena delves into the Greek tradition to produce his masterpiece of metaphysics and theology, the Periphyseon.

John Scotus Eriugena debates free will with his rival Gottschalk, arguing that God predestines the saved but not the damned.

In the final episode devoted to the Islamic world, Anke von Kügelgen joins Peter to discuss developments over the last century or so.

From Sabzawārī in the 19th century to Seyyed Hossein Nasr today, Iranian thinkers promote and respond to the thought of Mullā Ṣadrā.

Muḥammad ʿAbdūh and Muḥammad Iqbāl challenge colonialism and the traditional religious scholars of Islam.