The Thomistic Institute
Augustine's Significance for Theorists on War, Justice, and Peace | Fr. Andrew Hofer, O.P.
Nov 15, 2024
Fr. Andrew Hofer, O.P., a professor at the Dominican House of Studies and an expert on patristics, dives deep into St. Augustine's profound impact on concepts of war, justice, and peace. He unpacks Augustine's transformation from Manichaean to influential bishop, highlighting a pivotal conversion moment. The discussion emphasizes Augustine's beliefs on peace, the moral necessity of just causes in war, and critiques modern interpretations of his doctrines. His insights reveal Augustine's legacy as a cornerstone of moral theology in contemporary discourse.
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Quick takeaways
- St. Augustine's extensive writings significantly influenced contemporary Christian thought on the moral dimensions of war, justice, and the pursuit of peace.
- He defined peace as 'the tranquility of order,' advocating for dialogue to resolve conflicts and viewing warfare as a last resort.
Deep dives
The Importance of St. Augustine
St. Augustine, a key figure in Christian thought, significantly shaped the discourse on war, justice, and peace. His extensive writings, comprising around five million words, are crucial in understanding the principles of Christian beliefs regarding these topics. Born in 354 AD to a pagan father and a Christian mother, Augustine's diverse life experiences, including his time as a Manichean and his eventual conversion to Christianity, enriched his theological insights. His foundational works continue to influence contemporary discussions on moral and ethical considerations surrounding warfare.
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