HoP 446 - Not Doubting Thomas - the Aquinas Revival
May 26, 2024
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Exploring Aquinas' central role in Counter-Reformation thought, focusing on analogy and the soul. Dominican scholars defend Aquinas' legacy, debating his unity of form theory and human soul variations. Philosophical disagreements among followers of Aquinas and the scholastic tradition in Portugal are also highlighted.
Aquinas' revival was influenced by scholars like Cajetan focusing on analogical relationships in theological discourse.
Banyas defended Aquinas' unity of form theory against the multiple substantial forms theory, showing nuanced engagements within the scholastic tradition.
Deep dives
The Aquinas Revival and His Canonization
Aquinas, initially considered one of many leading thinkers alongside Albert the Great and others, faced controversy for his devotion to Aristotle and certain unpopular doctrines. Despite this, lobbying from the Dominicans led to his canonization in 1323, about 50 years after his death. He was later absolved of charges related to the Paris condemnation. Scholarly defenses by Dominicans like Capriolas and Peter of Crockout prompted the revival and defense of Aquinas' thought, influencing theologians like Francisco David Toria and Gabriel Vasquez.
Cajetan's Role in Counter-Reformation Scholasticism
Cajetan, also known as Thomas de Vio, emerged as a key figure in the Counter-Reformation, engaging with Aquinas' teachings extensively. His commentary on the Summa addressed open questions left by Aquinas and elaborated on metaphysical concepts. Cajetan upheld faith as an intellectual virtue, defended church authority, and rejected conciliarism, emphasizing the unique nature of papal supremacy. His work focused on the meanings of words concerning theology, asserting an imperfect concept for analogical relationships in theological discourse.
Banyas' Support for Aquinas and Disputes over Substantial Forms
Banyas, a follower of Aquinas, defended Aquinas' unity of form theory against objections. He argued against the multiple substantial forms theory, heavily debated in the Renaissance period. Banyas engaged in debates over the uniformity of human souls, particularly with Francisco de Toledo, highlighting differing interpretations and disagreements among philosophers following the Thomasian school. Discussions on the nature of human souls underscored the nuanced engagements within the scholastic tradition.