The Thomistic Institute Aquinas On Human Freedom and Free Will | Fr. James Brent OP
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Oct 16, 2018 
Fr. James Brent OP, a Dominican priest, explores Aquinas' views on human freedom and free will. The podcast delves into the essence and properties of free will, contrasting modern unguided choices with Aquinas' perspective. It discusses human agency driven by well-being and happiness, the hindrances to achieving well-being in nature, and the impact of ignorance and passion on ethical decision-making. The narrative also touches on the relationship between human freedom, love, and the pursuit of true goodness.
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Free Will's Societal Implication
- Aquinas argues for free will by highlighting the meaninglessness of societal structures without it.
- If our actions weren't free, advice, laws, and punishments would be pointless forms of control.
Modern Freedom
- Modern society often views free will as an unguided ability to opt for anything, a sacred personal space.
- This view interprets norms and laws as external impositions threatening this autonomy.
Free Will and Happiness
- Free will is ordered towards happiness, understood as overall well-being and fulfillment of human nature.
- Unlike animals driven by instinct, humans journey towards this well-being through free choice.