The Non-Aristotelian Character of Thomistic Ethics | Prof. Eleonore Stump
Apr 21, 2024
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Prof. Eleonore Stump discusses Aquinas' belief in virtues infused by God, challenging the perception of Aristotelian ethics. Topics include Justice as a spiritual virtue, piety through Aeneas' story, Pietas as a gift of the Holy Spirit, and the internal struggle of virtues vs. bad habits.
Aquinas emphasized that all Christians are called to glory with the indwelling Holy Spirit, rejecting the idea of mediocrity.
Aquinas' ethics blend infused virtues bestowed by God with acquired virtues developed through individual actions.
Deep dives
Aquinas' View on Excellence in Christian Life and Mediocrity
Aquinas believes that excellence in the Christian life is attainable by all, as he rejects the idea of some Christians being mediocre while others excel. He emphasizes that everyone is called to glory, with the indwelling Holy Spirit being central to this calling.
Interpreting Aquinas' Ethics as Aristotelian vs. Non-Aristotelian
Contrary to common scholarly interpretations, Aquinas' ethics are not solely Aristotelian. Scholars like Tony Kinney criticize Aquinas' attempt to blend Christian and Aristotelian ethics, noting an imbalance. Aquinas' ethics, though often associated with virtues like self-discipline, reason, and practice, are distinct from traditional Aristotelian virtue ethics.
Aquinas on Infused Virtues vs. Acquired Virtues
Aquinas distinguishes between infused virtues, bestowed by God without individual effort, and acquired virtues, which are self-developed through practice and habit. While acquired virtues are habitual dispositions developed through individual actions, infused virtues are relational characteristics infused by God, aligning with Augustinian definitions of virtue.
Passion, Love, and Virtue in Aquinas' Ethics
Aquinas differentiates levels of passion in his ethical framework, acknowledging sensory desires, reason-based desires, and theological virtues like love. He explains how love acts as a theological virtue, emphasizing second-personal relational characteristics by linking individuals to God. Aquinas' view integrates passion, virtues, and the theological virtues in a comprehensive ethical framework.