The Principe of Quodlibetal Waste
William Ockham’s principle of parsimony was challenged by Walter Chatton’s principle of plenitude. Ockham tended toward simplicity or parsimony in theories and explanations. However, such explanations cannot always be sustained. On the other hand, Walter Chatton wanted more detailed, wasteful explanations. The medieval thinkers, as well as the contemporary ones, are naturally inclined to favor the principle of plenitude. By applying the principle of plenitude, the theological scholars were able to interpret and examine the whole multitude of questions and their possible answers. Out of the extensive quodlibetal repertoire, this essay will examine just four questions.
Keywords: disputatio de quodlibet, principe of simplicity, principe of plenitude, wastefulness, angelology, divine omnipotence.
a) Surse primare
b) Surse secundare