Origins of Papal Infallibility 1150-1350; a Study on the Concepts of Infallibility, Sovereignty and Tradition in the Middle Ages

by Brian Tierney

'Tierney's handling of the canonical and theological sources is commendable.' Joseph A. La Barge, Journal of the American Academy of Religions, 1974. 'It is the thesis of this book that papal infallibility is basically a medieval creation...Professor Tierney's treatment of the twelfth-century canonists and the Franciscan theologians of the following century is admirable, almost impeccable...an important contribution to historical theology.' Journal of Ecumenical Studies.

Genres: History, Medieval, Nonfiction, Theology

Unknown Binding

First published January 1, 1972

Reviews

[Mir · Rating 4 out of 5]

A not-so-exciting read about a very theologically (and historically, given the power and influence of the Catholic Church) important idea.

The highlights, for non-medievalists and/or non-Catholics:
In 1324 the Church declared that the pope was infallaible concerning matters of faith and morals.
This is important because it means once a Pope has declared something to be doctrine, it can't later be rejected.

If you're actually into this topic (why?) there is lots of material about squabbles with the Franciscans, Thomistic theology, Peter Olivi, episcopal canons, discipline vs dogma, Latin grammar, Tertullian, etc.

[Adam DeVille, Ph.D. · Rating 4 out of 5]

An immensely learned entry into complex, difficult, but profoundly influential medieval Franciscan debates about poverty, power, and the papacy. A completely fascinating survey of great depth and detail. Further thoughts here: http://easternchristianbooks.blogspot...