[Mini Series] Episode 25: William of Ockham: The Razor of Simplicity

In this episode, we explore the bold and brilliant life of William of Ockham, the English friar who taught the world to cut away excess and focus on what’s essential. From his principle of simplicity—Ockham’s Razor—to his courage in challenging authority, Ockham’s ideas shaped science, democracy, and the way we think. Discover how his call to simplicity, humility, and clarity can guide us in our modern, overcomplicated world.

Reflective Questions for Listeners

1.Simplicity & Clarity Where in my life am I overcomplicating things—adding unnecessary steps, excuses, or assumptions—when a simpler path might be more effective?

2.Courage & Authority Am I willing to question traditions, systems, or authorities when they no longer serve truth or growth? Where is one area I could show more courage this week?

3.Humility & Knowledge When faced with uncertainty, do I pretend to know more than I do—or do I allow humility to guide me toward learning? How can I practice saying “I don’t know, but I will find out”?

---------------------------------------------------------

William of Ockham (1287–1347) was an English Franciscan friar, theologian, and philosopher. Born in Ockham, Surrey, he studied at Oxford but left without a degree, later clashing with the Church over theological debates and political authority. Best known for Ockham’s Razor, his principle that “entities should not be multiplied without necessity,” he championed simplicity and clarity in both logic and faith. He was excommunicated for challenging papal authority, yet his ideas influenced the Reformation, modern science, and the very foundations of rational inquiry.

---------------------------------------------------------

Fun Fact: Though excommunicated, William of Ockham was so respected that many of his critics still used his ideas. Today, even physicists and economists cite Ockham’s Razor without always knowing it comes from a medieval friar.