The Modern Scholar: The Philosophy of Thomas Aquinas

By: Prof. Peter Kreeft

Narrated by: Peter Kreeft

An enthusiastic admirer of the philosophy of Thomas Aquinas, professor and philosopher Peter Kreeft details the rational thought and precise literary talent that established Aquinas as the foremost thinker of his time - and as the most important philosopher for the almost 200 years between Aristotle and Descartes.

A landmark of philosophical achievement, Aquinas's Summa Theologica has given theologians and philosophers much to discuss since the 13th century. Peter Kreeft explains why.

©2009 Peter Kreeft (P)2009 Recorded Books, LLC

Fantastic!

What a fabulous overview of Thomism! It's going to take me a few times through, but this series of lectures presents the brilliant work of St. Thomas Aquinas in a very understandable way.

Exceeded Expecations

I enjoyed it. The narration was excellent. The most important feature was that I was able to consume the material at the rate at which the author was delivering it. It helped that I had read many of Plato's Dialogues, and had great courses in Aristotle, and other philosophers. If this were an actual college course there would likely be prerequisites. I think a small philosophical footing enhances the course but a lack of groundwork does not make the book insurmountable.

It is a course about the teachings of a philosophical Christian monk. The combining of a philosophical approach to the understanding of God was why I selected the book. Professor Peter Kreeft, discusses the joining or marriage of Helenistic and Hebrewism philosophies and the eventual divorce of this union.

The books / course comes with a PDF which provides a transcript for the narration and even has few questions at the end of each chapter.

Kreeft krushes it.

Peter Kreeft summarizes The Summa so skillfully and straightforwardly so as to stir the soul to Our Savior.

It's quite comprehensible, just not idiot proof...

This lecturer is a master of condensing and explaining philosophical concepts. He describes things in a general way where appropriate. However, with a good deal of Aquinas' thought there is no substitute for proceeding through the argument step by step. I felt the lecturer did a great job of this. If you find it incomprehensible I would suggest a second (or third) listen. Good philosophy rewards patience.

Excellent Summary of Aquinas

If you could sum up The Modern Scholar in three words, what would they be?

One of my favorite Audible books.

Who was your favorite character and why?

Aquinas. He is smart and relevant today.

What about the narrator’s performance did you like?

Very engaging and kept your interest.

Did you have an extreme reaction to this book? Did it make you laugh or cry?

No

Wow!

I appreciate this excellent introduction to the great one's philosophy. I listened to this in my car but am looking forward to listening again with a notebook nearby.
The one thing the author missed was in the last line. He said trees make us happy. I was waiting for him to say "And that's what it's all about." This is because Thomas said our ultimate purpose is happiness.
I strongly recommend this book to learn more about our faith.

Brilliant work.

This Audible may be the best philosophical and theological book I have yet read. Professor Kreeft is magnetic in his ability to capture a listener. In 14 lectures I found so many linkages to God yet understanding my never ending search for knowledge and science.
The Golden Mean explains so very many things. I now put Aquinas in my everyday thoughts. Thank you Peter Kreeft.

A good summary and overview of his thought.

Kreeft is, at times, a bit smug in his opinions, but he is able to provide an overview of Thomistic thought in a style that is easy to digest for beginners.

good pace

This is a good introduction to Thomas Aquinas. Story does get wordy sometimes.. very thoughtful

Great Synthesis

This book is very helpful in understanding the philosophy of this great character. It's simple to follow, very descriptive and a very enjoyable listen.