In this important collection, the editors argue that medieval philosophy is best studied as an interactive discussion between thinkers working on very much the same problems despite being often widely separated in time or place. Each section opens with at least one selection from a classical philosopher, and there are many points at which the readings chosen refer to other works that the reader will also find in this collection. There is a considerable amount of material from central figures such as Augustine, Abelard, Duns Scotus, and William of Ockham, as well as extensive texts from thinkers in the medieval Islamic world. Each selection is prefaced by a brief introduction by the editors, providing a philosophical and religious background to help make the material more accessible to the reader.

This edition, updated throughout, contains a substantial new chapter on medieval psychology and philosophy of mind, with texts from authors not previously represented such as John Buridan and Peter John Olivi.

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Richard N. Bosley and Martin M. Tweedale are Professors Emeritus, Department of Philosophy at the University of Alberta.

“Basic Issues in Medieval Philosophy is currently the best textbook on medieval philosophy in any modern language. It is outstanding in its area because the topical approach underlines both the relationship medieval philosophers have with ancient philosophers and the specific debates in which they were engaged among themselves. The selection of texts, some of which have never before been translated, is excellent. Bosley and Tweedale provide us with a decisively philosophical access to philosophy in the Middle Ages that allows the reader to discover a variety of competing views. I can only recommend this fine volume.” — Martin Pickave, University of Toronto

Comments on the First Edition:

“Basic Issues in Medieval Philosophy is unquestionably the best available textbook in the field.” — Norman Kretzmann, Cornell University