This book does take a somewhat different approach to philosophy, depicting it not as based on concepts or systems, but rather as a series of conflicts between contesting thinkers. Kurt Flasch analyzes the well-documented great controversial discussions in the Christian Middle Ages, the dispute between Erasmus and Luther as well as the issues the peace-loving Leibniz had to settle with both John Locke and Pierre Bayle. The volume concludes with Voltaire's criticism of Pascal. It dispenses with the illusions of completeness or purposeful course. It sheds light on the historical space between Augustin and Voltaire and illustrates the old European concept of philosophy. It reports on pivotal turning points that waxed decisive for the further development of thinking. By outlining the struggles for truth bringing to terms the cultural conflicts of their time, it serves to prove the intrinsically agonal character of philosophy. In its twenty-one chapters, the following philosophers have their say in this volume: Augustine, Julian of Aeclanum, Charlemagne, Berengar of Tours, Gaunilo, Anselm of Canterbury, Abelard, Averroes, Al-Gazali, Albert the Great, William of Ockham, Meister Eckhart, Nicholas of Kues, Johannes Wenck, Erasmus, Luther, Francesco Patrizi, Leibniz, John Locke, Pierre Bayle, Pascal, Voltaire.weiterlesen