C. S. Lewis and Aquinas: Was Lewis Influenced by Thomism? | Prof. Peter Kreeft
Oct 30, 2024
auto_awesome
Peter Kreeft, a philosophy professor at Boston College and prolific author, explores the intriguing connections between C.S. Lewis and Thomas Aquinas. He discusses how Lewis’s literary background intertwines with Thomistic influences, shedding light on their shared views of moral law and objective truth. Kreeft navigates the philosophical and theological divergences regarding scripture and the afterlife, while emphasizing ecumenical dialogue. Ultimately, he highlights their mutual respect for truth despite differing religious perspectives, creating a rich intellectual tapestry.
C.S. Lewis's philosophical approach blends emotional engagement with intellect, contrasting his literary background with Aquinas's scholastic emphasis on rationalism.
The differing views on natural law highlight the tension between Aquinas's optimism about moral permanence and Lewis's concern over societal erosion of this law.
Deep dives
C.S. Lewis's Philosophical Position
C.S. Lewis's philosophical stance is complex, as he embodies elements of both Thomism and Platonism. While he was deeply influenced by the works of Thomas Aquinas, Lewis is not considered a philosopher in the traditional sense, having trained in English literature instead. His background in literature shaped his thinking, making him more of a popular philosopher who connected with emotions and imagination, unlike Aquinas, who focused heavily on scholastic philosophy. This distinction signifies a broader approach to understanding truth, where Lewis emphasizes engaging the heart alongside the intellect.
Disagreements on Natural Law
A significant point of divergence between Aquinas and Lewis lies in their views on natural law. Aquinas argued that the natural moral law is inseparable from the human heart and cannot be abolished, suggesting a fundamental optimism about human conscience. Contrastingly, Lewis’s work, particularly in 'The Abolition of Man,' raises the possibility that natural law can indeed be undermined by societal ideology, implying a more pessimistic view on moral decay. This difference highlights their varied perspectives on human nature and morality, with Aquinas maintaining a steadfast belief in natural law's permanence, while Lewis warns of its potential erasure.
Ecumenism and Theological Perspectives
Lewis's theological views reflect a synthesis of both Protestant and Catholic beliefs, positioning him as a traditionalist with an appreciation for Catholic sensibilities. His respect for sacraments, belief in the real presence of Christ in the Eucharist, and consideration of purgatory indicate a deep connection to Catholic traditions, despite never identifying as Catholic himself. Discussions with figures like J.R.R. Tolkien reveal Lewis's apprehensions regarding Catholicism, yet he engaged in ecumenical dialogue, advocating for a respectful understanding between faiths. This stance showcases his unique role as a bridge between Protestant and Catholic thought in the 20th century.
Peter Kreeft, Ph.D., is a professor of philosophy at Boston College. He loves his five grandchildren, four children, one wife, one cat, and one God. He has written over 100 books including: Handbook of Christian Apologetics, Christianity for Modern Pagans, and Fundamentals of the Faith.
Get the Snipd podcast app
Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode
Save any moment
Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways
Share & Export
Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode