What were the main philosophical ideas of the School of Prague?

The School of Prague, also known as the Prague Circle, was a prominent center of medieval philosophy in the 14th century. Led by the Czech philosopher and theologian Jan Hus, the School of Prague developed several main philosophical ideas that had a significant impact on the intellectual landscape of the time.

1. Realism: The School of Prague was known for its strong commitment to realism, particularly in the field of metaphysics. They believed in the existence of universal concepts and argued that these universals have a real existence beyond individual objects. This position was in contrast to nominalism, which held that universals were merely names or mental constructs.

2. Empiricism: The Prague Circle emphasized the importance of empirical observation and experience in acquiring knowledge. They believed that knowledge should be based on sensory perception and empirical evidence rather than relying solely on abstract reasoning or authority. This empirical approach was influenced by the works of the English philosopher Roger Bacon.

3. Reformist Theology: The School of Prague was closely associated with the religious reform movement of the time, particularly through the teachings of Jan Hus. They advocated for a return to the simplicity and purity of early Christianity, criticizing the corruption and abuses within the Catholic Church. Their theological ideas emphasized the authority of the Bible and the importance of individual faith and direct relationship with God.

4. National Identity: The School of Prague also played a significant role in fostering Czech national identity and cultural pride. They promoted the use of the Czech language in theological and philosophical discourse, challenging the dominance of Latin as the language of intellectual discourse. This emphasis on national identity and cultural heritage was an important aspect of their philosophical ideas.

Overall, the main philosophical ideas of the School of Prague revolved around realism, empiricism, reformist theology, and the promotion of Czech national identity. These ideas had a lasting impact on the development of medieval philosophy and contributed to the broader intellectual and cultural movements of the time.