Ultimate Fulfillment & Human Perfection | Prof. Candace Vogler
Sep 26, 2019
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Prof. Candace Vogler delves into the distinction between everyday happiness and philosophical happiness, exploring Aristotle, Kant, and Aquinas' perspectives. They discuss the connection between happiness and virtue in Kant's philosophy, and Aquinas' views on human perfection through knowledge of God. The chapter also delves into Kant's philosophical stance on laws, practical reason, and rational faith, comparing it to Aristotle and Aquinas' perspectives on reason and fulfillment.
The pursuit of true happiness involves moral integrity and virtue, distinct from ordinary pleasures.
Aquinas views divine connection as the source of ultimate happiness, contrasting with Kant's emphasis on moral virtue.
Deep dives
Happiness in Everyday Life and Philosophical Perspectives
Various aspects of happiness are explored in everyday settings like Disneyland, McDonald's, and happy hour bars. While these venues offer a sense of happiness, it differs from the profound happiness sought in philosophical discussions on fulfilling careers, community, and meaningful lives. The pursuit of happiness in philosophical contexts involves considerations beyond mere pleasure, emphasizing elements like personal fulfillment and communal well-being.
Kant's Vision of Happiness and Virtue Proportionality
Kant's perspective links happiness to virtue, proposing that true happiness aligns with one's moral goodness. He distinguishes between ordinary happiness and a higher form tied to virtuous conduct. Kant's philosophy underscores the importance of moral integrity in achieving a happiness that correlates with one's level of virtue, presenting a complex interplay between happiness and ethical behavior.
Kant on the Highest Good, Practical Reason, and God
Kant delves into the concept of the highest good, emphasizing a felicity proportional to virtue as an ultimate aim. He posits that practical reason guides individuals towards this ideal, yet acknowledges the inherent limitations in attaining it solely through human efforts. Kant introduces the notion of God as the enabler of the highest good, bridging the gap between moral aspiration and practical realization.
Aquinas' Perspective on God, Happiness, and Faith
Aquinas perceives God as the ultimate good and the endpoint of human happiness, contrasting with Kant's emphasis on moral virtue. Aquinas highlights the divine as the pinnacle of joy and fulfillment, offering a theological lens through which happiness is intertwined with faith and divine grace. His view underscores the role of Christ in providing a model for attaining a transcendent happiness rooted in a deep spiritual connection.
This lecture was given as part of the "Made for More: Happiness, Friendship & the Good Life" conference held at the St. Thomas More Catholic Center at Yale University on September 14th, 2019.
The conference featured Fr. James Brent, OP (Dominican House of Studies), Fr. Dominic Legge, OP (Thomistic Institute and Dominican House of Studies), Prof. Adam Eitel (Yale University), and Prof. Candace Vogler (University of Chicago).
For more information on this and other events, go to thomisticinstitute.org/events-1
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