Gratia non tollat naturam sed perficit : Christian faith and reasoned discourse

Abstract

The issue of the relation between the Christian faith and reasoned discourse has consistently been discussed since the Mediaeval period and it is perhaps even more relevant today. The article traces the itinerary of this debate from the discovery of and adoption of Islamic scientific and philosophical sources and the extent to which they could be absorbed within the Christian Scholastic tradition. St Thomas Aquinas not only engaged in a dynamic encounter with non-Christian sources but also considered reason as a possible bridge in his on-going discussion with Muslim religious scholars and philosophers. He was open to the truth from wherever it originated. His approach should continue to be emulated today in order to promote and enhance dialogue between the Christian faith and modernity.