Born in 1937 in Paterson, New Jersey, Peter Kreeft established a long academic career as a philosopher and theologian at Boston College. His extensive written output comprises over eighty books, spanning topics from Christian apologetics to moral philosophy, often utilizing the Socratic method to engage with diverse intellectual figures and complex modern social issues.
Academic Formation and Career
Kreeft graduated from Eastern Christian High School in 1955. He earned his BA at Calvin College in 1959, followed by an MA at Fordham University in 1961. He completed his doctoral dissertation at Fordham in 1965 under the guidance of W. Norris Clarke, later undertaking post-graduate studies at Yale University. He joined the Boston College philosophy department in 1965, where he spent his professional career.
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Raised in a Calvinist tradition, Kreeft converted to the Catholic Church during his college years. He identified the Church's historical claims and the centrality of the Eucharist as decisive factors in this shift. His intellectual approach frequently incorporates Thomistic philosophy, the writings of St. John of the Cross, and a focus on the structural unity between Catholic and Protestant traditions.
Apologetics and Philosophical Dialogue
Much of Kreeft’s work is characterized by the use of dialogue to explore philosophical concepts. He formulated the 'Twenty Arguments for the Existence of God' alongside Ronald K. Tacelli for their collaborative Handbook of Christian Apologetics. His Socratic series, which includes debates with figures such as Machiavelli, Marx, and Sartre, serves as a mechanism to examine foundational philosophical problems for a contemporary audience.
Fast facts
- Born: 1937, Paterson, New Jersey
- Primary Employer: Boston College
- Alma Maters: Calvin College, Fordham University, Yale University
- Key Publication: Handbook of Christian Apologetics
- Religious Affiliation: Catholic Church
- Professional Titles: Philosopher, theologian, writer, university teacher
Questions readers ask
What is the basis of Kreeft's apologetics?
He relies heavily on logic and classical philosophical methods, often employing Socratic dialogue to address existence, morality, and Christian doctrine.
What was his academic focus regarding philosophy?
His work covers diverse areas, including moral relativism, the works of C.S. Lewis, the philosophy of J.R.R. Tolkien, and traditional logic.
Achievements
- Held posts at Boston College
