La fabrique de la néo-scolastique. Le rôle de l'Université pontificale du Latran et la normalisation de la pensée théologique avant le Concile Vatican II

Abstract

This study, grounded in extensive archival research at the Historical Archive of the Pontifical Lateran University and the Vatican Archives concerning the pontificate of Pius XII, explores the University’s central role in shaping pre-conciliar theological discourse. As a preeminent institution of the "Roman School," the Lateran emerged as a stronghold against what were perceived as doctrinal deviations, particularly those associated with the French nouvelle théologie of the 1930s. This theological movement, which sought to engage more deeply with contemporary thought and scriptural sources, was met with suspicion by the Holy Office. Leading figures such as Fr. Mariano Cordovani and Msgr. Pietro Parente criticized its alleged relativistic tendencies, while the magisterium, most notably through Pius XII’s encyclical Humani generis, reaffirmed the hegemony of neo-Thomism. Under the rectorship of Msgr. Antonio Piolanti, the Lateran played a crucial role in systematizing theological education and publications, aligning closely with the Roman Theological Academy to promote Thomistic philosophy while actively suppressing dissenting perspectives. In doing so, it exerted a profound influence on the pre-conciliar theological landscape, contributing to the intellectual consolidation of a conservative theological paradigm that would shape the discourse leading up to the Second Vatican Council