Definition

Aristotelianism (noun) 1. A philosophical system: The comprehensive philosophy developed by Aristotle, which systematically addresses fundamental areas of inquiry including logic, metaphysics, ethics, poetics, politics, and natural science. 2. A school of thought: The tradition of interpreting, teaching, and developing the ideas and methods originated by Aristotle.

Examples

• As a system of thought:
  • Medieval scholasticism was deeply rooted in Aristotelianism, particularly through the works of Thomas Aquinas.
  • The scientist's approach to classification showed a clear influence of Aristotelianism.
• Referring to the tradition:
  • The university was a major center for the study of Aristotelianism during the Renaissance.
  • His critique was directed not just at Aristotle but at centuries of subsequent Aristotelianism.

Advanced Usage

• Neo-Aristotelianism: Refers to modern philosophical movements that revive or reinterpret Aristotelian concepts, often in contemporary contexts like virtue ethics or the philosophy of biology.
  • The philosopher is known for his work in Neo-Aristotelianism, applying ancient concepts to modern ethical dilemmas.

Variants and Related Words

• Aristotelian (adjective): Of or relating to Aristotle or his philosophy.
  • She presented an Aristotelian analysis of the tragic play.
• Aristotelian (noun): A follower or scholar of Aristotle's philosophy.
  • The debate was between a Platonist and an Aristotelian.

Synonyms

• Peripatetic philosophy (historical synonym, from the Peripatetic school founded by Aristotle's followers).
• Aristotle's philosophy (direct descriptive synonym).

Notes on Different Meanings

The core meaning of "Aristotelianism" is the philosophy of Aristotle itself. However, it also encompasses the long historical tradition of commentary and adaptation. The term can therefore refer both to the original doctrines and to their later interpretations and developments within Western intellectual history.

Noun

1. (philosophy) the philosophy of Aristotle that deals with logic and metaphysics and ethics and poetics and politics and natural science
   • Aristotelianism profoundly influenced Western thought