A History of Western Philosophy and Theology

A History of Western Philosophy and Theology is the fruit of John Frame’s forty- five years of teaching philosophical subjects. No other survey of the history of Western thought offers the same invigorating blend of expositional clarity, critical insight, and biblical wisdom. The supplemental study questions, bibliographies, links to audio lectures, quotes from influential thinkers, twenty appendices, and indexed glossary make this an excellent main textbook choice for seminary- and college-level courses and for personal study.


“This is the most important book ever written on the major figures and movements in philosophy. We have needed a sound guide, and this is it.”

—Vern S. Poythress, Professor of New Testament Interpretation, Westminster Theological Seminary; Editor, Westminster Theological Journal


“I have never read a history of Western thought quite like John Frame’s. Professor Frame unabashedly tries to think through sources and movements out of the framework (bad pun intended) of deep-seated Christian commitments and invites his readers to do the same. These commitments will make this work invaluable to students and pastors . . . . Agree or disagree with some of his arguments, but John Frame will teach you how to think in theological and philosophical categories.”

—D. A. Carson, Research Professor of New Testament, Trinity Evangelical Divinity School


“Few in our day champion a vision of God that is as massive, magnificent, and biblical

as John Frame’s. For decades, he has given himself to the church, to his students, and to meticulous thinking and the rigorous study of the Bible. He has winsomely, patiently, and persuasively contended for the gospel in the secular philosophical arena as well as in the thick of the church worship wars and wrestlings with feminism and open theism. He brings together a rare blend of big-picture thinking, levelheaded reflection, biblical fidelity, a love for the gospel and the church, and the ability to write with care and clarity.”

—John Piper, Founder and Teacher, desiringGod.org; Chancellor, Bethlehem College

and Seminary