[skuh-las-tuh-siz-uh
m] 
| 1. | (sometimes initial capital letter) the system of theological and philosophical teaching predominant in the Middle Ages, based chiefly upon the authority of the church fathers and of Aristotle and his commentators. |
| 2. | narrow adherence to traditional teachings, doctrines, or methods. |
| scho·las·ti·cism (skə-lās'tĭ-sĭz'əm) n.
|
The philosophy and theology, marked by careful argumentation, that flourished among Christian thinkers in Europe during the Middle Ages.
Note: Central to scholastic thought is the idea that reason and faith are compatible. Scholastic thinkers such as Thomas Aquinas tried to show that ancient philosophy, especially that of Aristotle, supported and illuminated Christian faith.