The Origin of the Soul from Antiquity to the early Modern Period

Abstract

The origin of the soul became a systematic subject of speculation in Greek philosophy and medicine. In early Christian thought, three theories evolved: the soul was held to be either generated from the parents (traducianism) or it was believed to be formed by a special act of creation on God’s part (creationism), or else it’s origin was related to a former realm (pre-existence). These alternatives, in numerous guises and theoretical cross breedings, intrigued medieval and early modern philosophers, theologians and scientists until the eighteenth century. This introduction offers a summary reconstruction of relevant debates and issues, guiding the reader in doctrinal paths where medicine, philosophy and theology intermingle.