Philosophy for the People Ratzinger's Notion of Person: a Thomistic Response w/ Dr. Gaven Kerr
Oct 20, 2024
In this discussion, Dr. Gaven Kerr, an expert in Thomistic philosophy, dives deep into the notion of personhood through the lens of Ratzinger's theology. He distinguishes between divine relations and human identity, highlighting the complexities of the Trinity. The conversation critiques traditional metaphysical frameworks and emphasizes relationality in understanding personhood. Kerr also explores misconceptions around Thomism, the nature of action, and the enduring impact of various philosophical influences, all while advocating for a synthesis of these rich traditions.
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Ratzinger's Relational Person Critique
- Ratzinger claims persons are constituted by relationality, contrasting with the Thomistic notion of person as a rational substance.
- He sees relationality as essential, but this view misinterprets Aquinas' more complex metaphysics of existence.
Genetic Fallacy in Ratzinger's Method
- Ratzinger commits the genetic fallacy by assuming a concept's origin defines its essence.
- The person concept arose from theological contexts but need not be limited to or defined by those origins.
Relations Are Not a New Category
- Ratzinger posits relation as a new metaphysical category beyond substance and accident, citing divine simplicity.
- Kerr argues relation is an analogical attribute of substance, not a distinct category, preserving divine simplicity via analogy.