Scholasticism (noun)

1. A system of thought and learning that prevailed in medieval European schools, characterized by an emphasis on formalism and strict adherence to classical sources.
2. The philosophy and methods of the medieval European schools.
3. An approach to academic study that emphasizes strict adherence to established forms and ideas.

Origin:

From middle latin scholasticus, from schola, meaning "school.".

Examples:

1. The revival of classical learning in the twelfth and thirteenth centuries gave birth to a new movement, known as scholasticism.
2. Scholasticism was a major influence on Western thought and culture during the Middle Ages.
3. The great thinkers of scholasticism, such as Thomas Aquinas and Duns Scotus, made significant contributions to philosophy and theology.
4. Critics of scholasticism have argued that its emphasis on formalism stifled creativity and independent thought.
5. Despite its limitations, scholasticism remains an important part of the intellectual history of the Western world.