Thomas Aquinas: The Division and Methods of the Sciences (Mediaeval Sources in Translation)

The great thing about reading Thomas is that one can open the Summa or other work randomly and gain insight into whatever question is being addressed. That said, this will not provide much on Thomism as such, and without context the experience and understanding that comes therefrom may not be so rich. Nevertheless, Thomas is about a clear a thinker as there ever was. The disputed questions that comprise this wonderful little collection are from a work he did on Boethius, but stand easily on their own. I wanted to read this book to see how the different areas of knowledge were--and could be even now--organized. This little gem not only explained that clearly but also offered a lot of additional study into what the mathematical, natural, and theological sciences are. In short, I really believe that these idea have given me even more clarity on what philosophy is and how it fits in with the traditional sciences. It also provides something of an alternative to other divisions such as the trivium and quadrivium while also validating those traditions. A modest background in Aristotle and Thomas might help but those are not necessary.

This is a good translation of an important text by Aquinas. It's part of his commentary on Boethius' De Trinitate. He covers the sciences and the liberal arts. He discusses the divisions of science-practical vs. speculative, divine vs. mathematical vs. physical-methods of the sciences, and the relation of theology to the other sciences. It makes for mostly interesting, but somewhat dry reading (this is probably true of all texts by St. Thomas). There's much to be gained here if you like medieval philosophy/theology/science or if you just enjoy dipping into Scholastic texts once in a while (and you should!). If you're interested in the Liberal Arts tradition, this is an important text. You'll find him commenting not only on Boethius but on Hugh of St. Victor. There's also a nice introduction which will help illuminate some of the dark corners of the text.

I use this for school and its works just fine minimal to no damage markups. I recommend this book and seller!! Thank you Amazon!!

If people educated in the physical sciences wanted to study this, they would not be so smug about their branch of science. A must for every college educated person BEFORE they begin their studies . However, you can lead the arrogant to water, but you can't make them drink..

Excellent!

Well thought out division by the medieval thinkers. Impressive in its systematic treatment of a complex topic. Today I think we would be fearful of trying for such simplicity.

Good Christian reading.