El Renacimiento - Historia

Historical Overview of Philosophy: The Renaissance

Transition from Medieval to Modern Philosophy

• The discussion begins with the historical perspective of philosophy, emphasizing the transition from ancient and medieval ages to modern philosophy, highlighting the importance of the Renaissance.

• Philosophy is divided into four major ages: ancient, medieval, modern, and contemporary. A notable gap exists between the medieval and modern periods known as the Renaissance.

Characteristics of the Renaissance

• The Renaissance is described as a cultural, artistic, literary, and philosophical movement characterized by an anthropocentric focus and a shift towards separating church and state.

• Key aspects include a flourishing culture in art and literature; much of today's recognized art stems from this period.

Worldviews Across Different Ages

• Each philosophical age has its own worldview or "cosmovisión." For instance:

• Ancient Age: Geocentric view where everything revolves around Earth.

• Medieval Age: Theocentric view where God is central to all understanding.

Shift in Perspective During the Renaissance

• In contrast to previous ages, the Renaissance introduces an anthropocentric perspective where humans become central figures in understanding existence.

• This shift marks a significant change from viewing life through divine lenses (theocentrism) to focusing on human experience (anthropocentrism).

Evolution Towards Modernity

• Following the Renaissance comes modernity characterized by heliocentrism—where science becomes central—and ultimately leads to contemporary views that are technocentric.

• Humanism emerges as a defining term for the Renaissance due to its emphasis on human creativity after centuries dominated by teocentrism.

Fundamental Characteristics of Humanism

• Key features include:

• A quest for new knowledge beyond medieval experiences.

• Recognition of humanity as pivotal in history.

• Valuation of science and reason alongside artistic growth.

Social Classes and the Rise of the Bourgeoisie

Overview of Social Structure

• The social structure during this period was primarily divided into two classes: the clergy (including kings, nobles, popes, bishops, and cardinals) and the working class.

• Peasants were not considered a distinct social class; they worked to support the upper classes without any significant power or status.

Emergence of the Bourgeoisie

• At the end of the Middle Ages, a new social class began to emerge known as the bourgeoisie, which consisted mainly of merchants gaining economic and political power.

• This rise in influence marked a significant shift towards a market-driven economy and laid groundwork for future societal changes.

Key Figures of Transition

Influential Thinkers

• Erasmus of Rotterdam (1465–1536) is highlighted as an important figure during this transitional period.

• Niccolò Machiavelli is noted for his contributions to political theory that will be explored later in detail.

Philosophical Contributions

• Thomas Hobbes is mentioned as crucial for understanding concepts related to social contracts.

• Cayetano reinterprets Thomas Aquinas' ideas while Francisco Suárez introduces a new metaphysical system.

Giordano Bruno: A Case Study

Conflict Between Faith and Reason

• Giordano Bruno stands out as a philosopher who significantly contributed to science while separating it from faith-based beliefs.

• His execution by burning in Rome's Piazza de Fiori exemplifies the intense conflict between faith and reason during this era.