Humanities CLEP Prep Practice Exam

What philosophical trend explored by humanists during the Renaissance is emphasized by the phrase "ad fontes"?

1. Skepticism

2. Consideration of classical precedents

3. Rationalism

4. Hedonism

The correct answer is: Consideration of classical precedents

During the Renaissance, humanists placed a heavy emphasis on studying and celebrating classical Greco-Roman culture, which is known as classical humanism. This renewed interest in ancient texts and ideas, also known as the Renaissance of the 12th century, was in opposition to the medieval scholasticism that had dominated intellectual thought in Europe during the Middle Ages. The phrase "ad fontes" means "to the sources" in Latin, and it represents the humanistic belief in looking back to classical precedents for guidance and inspiration. Skepticism, rationalism, and hedonism were not emphasized by humanists during the Renaissance and therefore are not the correct answers.