Philosophische Discourse

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Nikolaus Hieronymus Gundling (1671-1729), a disciple of Thomasius, significantly contributed to early Enlightenment philosophical discourse both academically and journalistically. He argued for freedom of opinion as a progressive value and maintained a style that was both learned and entertaining, leading to the popularity of his lectures as a Professor of Philosophy, Rhetoric, and Law at Halle. His textbook, “Via ad Veritatem” (1713-1715), spans three volumes covering logic, ethics, and natural law, incorporating Thomasian philosophy, notably the Hippocratic theory of temperaments in ethics, alongside references to Locke and Hobbes. The posthumously published “Philosophische Discourse” (1739-1740) provides a comprehensive insight into Gundling’s lecturing practices, where he connects passages from his textbooks and essays with his extensive historical knowledge. His approach was characterized by provocative yet respectful argumentation, ensuring that his critiques were never personally offensive. Gundling’s influence extended well beyond his lifetime, as evidenced by the remarkable publication of lecture notes for decades after his death.