Readings of Aquinas in Modern Orthodox Thought

Abstract

This chapter brings us to the modern era of Orthodox theology. In sharp contrast with the Byzantine reception of Aquinas, modern Orthodox readings have been resoundingly negative. The chief articulations of antipathy to Thomas are discussed, ranging from Sergius Bulgakov and Vladimir Lossky to John Romanides and Christos Yannaras. Such antipathy can only be understood within the context of the dichotomous approach to Orthodox theology developed by the Slavophiles in early nineteenth century Russia. This tendency towards Orthodox self-definition in opposition to the Western other has become virtually normative within modern Orthodox theology. Exceptions to this prevalent anti-Westernism are found in figures such as Georges Florovsky, Kallistos Ware, and Stelios Ramphos. Much work, however, remains to be done before Orthodox theology can be deemed to have escaped from the captivity of dichotomy.