c. 1225-1274

Italian Philosopher

The writings of Thomas Aquinas represent the pinnacle of medieval Scholasticism, a school of thought that attempted to bring together Christian faith, classical learning, and knowledge of the world. In his life's work, the Summa theologica, Thomas Aquinas addressed new ideas that seemed to threaten the stability of Christian faith, among them the rising attitude of scientific inquiry among European scholars. The Summa attempted to delineate the realms of reason and faith, to affect an understanding between them, and to place God as the "Prime Mover" governing all realms. Thomas's ideas, initially scorned by church authorities, soon became received doctrine, and had a profound influence on European thinking for many centuries.

Born in the Italian town of Aquino—hence the name "Aquinas"—Thomas was the youngest son of a Norman count. At the age of five, he was placed in...