The papers collected in this volume fall into three main groups. Those in the first group are concerned with the origin and early development of the idea of natural rights. The author argues here that the idea first grew into existence in the writings of the 12th-century canonists. The articles in the second group discuss miscellaneous aspects of medieval law and political thought. They include an overview of modern work on late medieval canon law. The final group of articles is concerned with the history of papal infallibility, with especial reference to the tradition of Franciscan ecclesiology and the contributions of John Peter Olivi and William of Ockham.

About the Author
Brian Tierney, Cornell University, USA

Reviews
'..the essays in this volume constitute an important distillation of scholarship on the history of medieval canon law and political theory. We see the A[uthor] at his absolute best- challenging cherished but untenable views, creatively reworking the whole tradition of medieval political and legal historiography, and even occasionally breaking some icons. This is an important work that allows one to grasp fully the range and importance of his scholarship. His work on rights, on religious liberty, on papal infallibility and the many other themes touched on in this collection is as timely and compelling now as when first written.' Studia Canonica, Vol. 32



Book Information
ISBN 9780860786481
Author Brian Tierney
Format Hardback
Page Count 352
Imprint Variorum
Publisher Taylor & Francis Ltd
Weight(grams) 453g