Could a historical pattern exist in which a realist philosophy is used to justify a theology? How? Why? Saint Thomas of Aquinas utilized Aristotle’s realism to support Christian philosophy. And now I am using Ayn Rand’s epistemology to support my theology( EXAMPLES: https://www.researchgate.net/post/Randian_Objectivism_is_devoutly_atheist_yet_could_expanding_identity_to_fit_physics_generate_insight_about_the_afterlife_Why_How2 , https://www.researchgate.net/post/How_related_is_the_Law_of_Identity_to_the_Fundamental_Theorem_of_Calculus ).
This is a challenging study to make the philosophical approach more alive. as in my area of study, Islamic philosophy and theology. Muslim thinkers practiced it during the Abbasid dynasty.
There are historical examples in which realist philosophy was used to justify the theology of Jesus. An interesting example is represented by the works of Christian theologians of the Middle Ages especially of the scholastic period (from the 11th to the 17th century). Scholasticism is a philosophical and theological system that seeks to justify faith using the tools of classical philosophy in particular Aristotelian metaphysics. The main figure of this movement is the medieval theologian and philosopher Thomas Aquinas. Thomas Aquinas used realist philosophy especially Aristotelian realism as a framework to develop his theological ideas. Realism in this context refers to the belief that universals (abstract concepts such as properties or relationships) have a real existence outside of the mind. Aquinas believed that reason and faith were compatible and sought to integrate Aristotles philosophy with Christian theology.
Yes, and although Tomas Aquinas is considered a Doctor of the Faith in the Catholic Faith/Tradition. Many protestants as well, have well organized structural bases, to further their research; although they present it--in different manners. Take, Frank Turek for instance, he explains how there is interactivity historically. He unpacks the paradox of using iterations of realism and naturalism. He posits, and explains that naturalism relies on theism and Christianity for its basis. There are clips online, where you can find him explaining this.
Sadly, patterns exist. However, for any sound Christian theological study, starting with the biblical text is wise. Any other approach needs to be more credible hermeneutically.
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