John of Salisbury Quotes

Scholar
England
1115

John of Salisbury (1115-1180) was an English philosopher, theologian, and statesman. He is best known for his works Policraticus and Metalogicon, which are considered to be among the most important works of the 12th century. He was a student of Peter Abelard and a close friend of Thomas Becket. He was an important figure in the development of scholasticism, and his works were influential in the development of political thought in the Middle Ages. He was also a major proponent of the papal monarchy and the supremacy of the Roman Catholic Church.Read Less

Let him who is not come to logic be plagued with continuous and everlasting filth Feraz Zeid, January 12, 2024, John of Salisbury, Everlasting, Logic, 0

- John of Salisbury

Scholar

· England

Just as the soul animates the body, so, in a way, meaning breathes life into a word. Feraz Zeid, January 12, 2024, John of Salisbury, Body, Soul, 0

- John of Salisbury

Scholar

· England

Body
Soul

He who will not when he may, may not when he will. Feraz Zeid, September 23, 2023, John of Salisbury, 0

- John of Salisbury

Scholar

· England

John of Salisbury Career Highlights

Education and Early Career:

John of Salisbury was born in Salisbury, England, around

He received his early education at the Cathedral School of Salisbury, where he studied under the renowned scholar, Peter of Blois. He then went on to study at the University of Paris, where he became a master of arts and studied theology under Peter Abelard.
Diplomatic Career:

In 1148, John of Salisbury was appointed as the secretary to Theobald, Archbishop of Canterbury. He accompanied Theobald on diplomatic missions to Rome and France, where he gained valuable experience in international relations and politics.

Advisor to King Henry II:

In 1153, John of Salisbury became the personal secretary and advisor to King Henry II of England. He played a crucial role in the king’s administration, advising him on matters of state and serving as a mediator between the king and the church.

Bishop of Chartres:

In 1176, John of Salisbury was appointed as the Bishop of Chartres, a prestigious position in the Catholic Church. He continued to serve as a trusted advisor to King Henry II while also fulfilling his duties as a bishop.

Key Contributions by John of Salisbury

Political Theory:

John of Salisbury’s most significant contribution was his work on political theory, particularly his book “Policraticus.” In this work, he discusses the role of the state, the duties of rulers, and the relationship between church and state. He also emphasizes the importance of law and justice in a well-governed society.

Theology:

John of Salisbury was also a prolific theologian, and his works on theology, such as “Metalogicon” and “Entheticus,” were highly influential. He was a strong advocate for the study of logic and reason in theology, and his writings helped bridge the gap between faith and reason.

Humanism:

John of Salisbury was a humanist, and his works reflect his belief in the value of human knowledge and reason. He believed that education and intellectual pursuits were essential for the betterment of society and the individual.What Sets Him Apart:

Multidisciplinary Approach:

John of Salisbury’s works were not limited to one field of study. He had a multidisciplinary approach, combining philosophy, theology, and politics in his writings. This approach was ahead of its time and made his works unique and influential.

Influence on Later Thinkers:

John of Salisbury’s works had a significant impact on later thinkers, such as Thomas Aquinas and John Locke. His ideas on the relationship between church and state and the importance of law and justice were incorporated into their works.

Diplomatic Skills:

John of Salisbury’s diplomatic skills were highly valued by both the church and the state. He was able to navigate complex political situations and maintain good relations with different parties, making him a valuable asset to King Henry II.

Takeaways

Importance of Education:

John of Salisbury’s life and works highlight the importance of education and intellectual pursuits. He believed that knowledge and reason were essential for the betterment of society and the individual.

Relevance of Political Theory:

John of Salisbury’s works on political theory are still relevant today. His ideas on the role of the state, the duties of rulers, and the relationship between church and state continue to be studied and debated.

Multidisciplinary Approach:

John of Salisbury’s multidisciplinary approach to his works serves as a reminder that knowledge and ideas cannot be confined to one field of study. His works continue to inspire and influence thinkers from various disciplines.

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