Establishing the Real Distinction w/ Dr. Gaven Kerr

Thomas Aquinas distinguishes essence from existence by positing the "act of existence" (esse) as a fundamental metaphysical principle that goes beyond matter and form.

This act of existence is what makes a thing "something rather than nothing" and accounts for its actual presence, which neither matter nor form alone can explain.

Gaven Kerr explains how Aquinas, through a special intellectual operation sensitive to actual existence, shows that existence has ontological depth and must be considered distinct from essence to avoid mere conceptual distinction.

This insight counters objections suggesting existential act is presupposed and clarifies that our direct intellectual experience of concrete particulars reveals existence as something metaphysically real and not just a property.

The approach emphasizes metaphysics as a science grounded in direct engagement with reality, distinct from scientific abstractions, illuminating the unique character of existence in Thomistic philosophy.

• Aquinas introduces the act of existence (esse) as a distinct metaphysical principle from essence and form.
• This concept avoids universal hylomorphism by explaining compositeness beyond matter and form alone.

• Aquinas grounds the distinction between God and creatures primarily on essence and existence.
• The metaphysics of essence and existence is more fundamental than the necessary-contingent distinction for Aquinas.