1. a medieval philosophical and theological system that sought to reconcile Christian doctrine with classical philosophy, especially Aristotelian thought
Usage: historical; academic
2. adherence to traditional methods of learning or teaching that emphasize formal rules and established authorities
Usage: often critical

Examples

• Thomas Aquinas was one of the greatest figures of medieval scholasticism.
• The university’s scholasticism emphasized rigorous logical analysis of theological questions.
• Critics argued that the school’s scholasticism stifled creative thinking.
• Scholasticism dominated European universities from the 12th to 15th centuries.
• The professor rejected modern scholasticism in favor of experimental methods.
• Medieval scholasticism attempted to prove religious truths through reason.