---

This book examines the phenomenological anthropology of Edith Stein. It specifically focuses on the question which Stein addressed in her work Finite and Eternal Being: What is the foundational principle that makes the individual unique and unrepeatable within the human species? Traditional analyses of Edith Stein´s writings have tended to frame her views on this issue as being influenced by Aristotle and Thomas Aquinas, while neglecting her interest in the lesser-known figure of Duns Scotus. Yet, as this book shows, with regard to the question of individuality, Stein was critical of Aquinas´ approach, finding that of Duns Scotus to be more convincing. In order to get to the heart of Stein´s readings of Duns Scotus, this book looks at her published writings and her personal correspondence, in addition to conducting a meticulous analysis of the original codexes on which her sources were based. Written with diligence and flair, the book critically evaluates the authenticity of Stein´s sources and shows how the position of Scotus himself evolved. It highlights the originality of Stein´s contribution, which was to rediscover the relevance of Mediaeval scholastic thought and reinterpret it in the language of the Phenomenological school founded by Edmund Husserl.

---

Chapter 1: Introduction.- Chapter 2: A historic and critical study of the "Scotist" sources used by Edith Stein.- Chapter 3: The question of the principium individuationis in the writings of Duns Scotus. Ordinatio/Lectura - Quaestiones super Libros Metaphysicorum.- Chapter 4: The intangible individuality of human beings. The originality of Edith Stein´s perspective.- Chapter 5: Conclusion.- Postface.- Bibliography.

---

"In conclusion, the book of Francesco Alfieri, OFM stands for a valuable contribution to rounding the scholastic and phenomenological meditation and understanding of the (problem of) individuality in its intricate essence and manifestation ... . This essay provides a well-argued insight into a controversial and significant issue that remains open to further discussions as one of topical interest concerning the deep meaning of the own being ..." (Spotlight, wordtrade.com, Issue. 31, August, 2018)

---

Francesco Alfieri is professor of philosophy at the Pontificia Universitas Lateranensis, which appointed him International Area Research Secretary for "Edith Stein in contemporary philosophy". He is the Editor-in-chief for the annotated Italian edition of the complete works of H. Conrad-Martius and the series entitled "Philosophy - Phenomenology - Texts by Anna-Teresa Tymieniecka", published by Morcelliana.

---