

Nominalism and Modernist Literature | Prof. Erik Tonning
5 snips Sep 21, 2022
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Theological Origins of Modernity
- Western modernity emerges from theological history, shaped by decisions from the 13th and 14th centuries.
- Nominalism and volunteerism are key shifts generating modernity, impacting intellectual problems and artistic expression.
Nominalism and Language
- Nominalism rejects the reality of universals; similarities are mental perceptions organized into abstract labels.
- Language becomes a veil, concealing truth by fostering belief in non-existent universals, creating individualized worlds.
Nominalist God
- Occam's rejection of real natures stems from volunteerism, prioritizing God's absolute will.
- This creates a chaotic, unpredictable world lacking certainty, challenging human understanding and security.