Thomism vs. Scotism w/ Dr. Gaven Kerr and Dr. Tom Ward
Jan 24, 2023
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Joining the conversation are Dr. Gaven Kerr, a Thomism expert and author of 'Aquinas's Way to God', and Dr. Tom Ward, a Scotism aficionado known for 'Ordered by Love'. They engage in a fascinating debate over causality and divine influence, with Kerr and Ward sparring over essential and grounding dependence. They animate the philosophical discourse on individuality using quirky examples like a Furby. The duo also explores various arguments for God’s existence and the implications of their contrasting perspectives on contemporary philosophical thought.
The distinction between Scotus’ simultaneity condition and Thomistic independence in causality shifts the understanding of causal series and primary causes.
Scotus' concept of Haecceity emphasizes intrinsic individuality beyond material aspects, contrasting with Thomism's focus on material conditions for identity.
The dialogue emphasizes that differing arguments for God's existence can coexist and enrich discussions, highlighting the relationship between faith and philosophical reasoning.
Deep dives
Discussion on Essentially Ordered Series
The conversation revolves around the concept of Essentially Ordered Series, particularly as presented by John Duns Scotus. One of the key distinctions discussed is Scotus' introduction of the simultaneity condition, which posits that for the causal series to be effective, the causes must act simultaneously. This contrasts with the Thomistic view, as articulated by Fieser, wherein the causes in the series do not necessarily require simultaneous action for their efficacy. The participants delve into how this simultaneity criterion alters the understanding of per se ordered series and their necessity in relation to a primary cause.
Scotus' Position on Causality
The participants explore the nuances in Scotus' understanding of causality, specifically in relation to his assertion that secondary causes depend on primary causes for existence. An argument is made that while Scotus emphasizes an active causative relationship, Aquinas suggests that the members of a causal series may possess a certain level of independence concerning timing. The dialogue also touches on examples of causality in nature and how certain principles, such as divine creation, could be explained without the need for strict simultaneity. This discussion highlights the philosophical implications of causation in understanding existence and relating to God.
Essential Dependence and Grounding
The conversation highlights the differentiation between essential dependence and the grounding relationship in causal terms. Scotus theorizes that for something to be considered essentially dependent, the existence of the posterior entity must rely on the prior entity. This stands in contrast to the Thomistic view, which posits that while secondary causes are dependent on primary causes, this dependency does not necessarily relate to the act of causation itself. The resulting philosophical tension underscores a broader inquiry into how substances interact and the implications for metaphysical unity concerning existence.
Individuation and Divine Ideas
The discussion progresses to the topic of individuation and the role of divine ideas in understanding creaturely existence. It is suggested that for Scotus, an individual's identity transcends its material aspects through the concept of Haecceity, which distinguishes one individual from another based on an intrinsic factor that is non-shareable. In contrast, the Thomistic view typically grounds individuality in the material conditions and demensive quantities. This difference illustrates a deep philosophical divide regarding how essence and existence relate to individual identity.
Challenges to God's Existence
The participants engage in a critical examination of various arguments for God's existence beyond the classical proofs of Aquinas. They reflect on the implications of divine ideas and how intelligibility can be accepted as a form of understanding God's nature. A compelling case is made for Scotus' proof from the De Primo Principio, suggesting it may provide a significant affirmation of God's existence. This leads to a broader acknowledgment that various perspectives and arguments may not only coexist but inform each other within the discourse on divine existence.
Relationship Between Faith and Reason
Lastly, the dialogue explores the intricate relationship between faith and reason, especially concerning the justification of belief in God. It is acknowledged that while one might possess a deep-rooted faith, philosophical reasoning enhances that belief through justification. Participants highlight that while different criteria for justification may apply across individuals, the shared convergence on truth remains vital. Ultimately, this conversation ties back to how different intellectual approaches can coexist and enrich one's understanding of divinity and existence.
At last, the ultimate showdown! Thomism vs Scotism featuring Gaven Kerr and Tom Ward. Discuss ranges over causality, arguments for God, modality, and much more!
