Abstract

The theoretical distance between the Cartesian concept, on the one hand, and the Platonic concept and Medieval tradition, on the other, would be incomprehensible unless one were to take into account the fundamental link, that lies in the thought of John Duns Scotus. The scope of this contribution is to illustrate the theoretical bearing of the turnabout in theology operated by Scotus as regards the concept of ideas. In fact, for Scotus, as we shall see, the concept of the idea is profoundly transformed, loses its exemplary value and takes on a new semblance that is nearer to the Cartesian concept, all this starting from a theological framework.