The Thomistic Institute Aquinas on the Question: 'Whether God Exists?' | Prof. Gregory Doolan
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Aug 2, 2024 
Prof. Gregory Doolan, a philosopher and expert on Aquinas, dives deep into the intricacies of St. Thomas Aquinas' proofs for God's existence. He explores Aquinas' Five Ways, shedding light on the difference between knowing God exists and understanding His essence. Doolan clarifies common misconceptions about philosophical proof versus individual faith. Rich discussions on proctor quid and quia demonstrations reveal how effects lead to causes, making complex ideas accessible and engaging.
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Knowing God's Essence Is Impossible
- Aquinas argues we can't know God's essence but still can ask and answer if God exists.
- We seek evidence of God's existence, not a simple yes/no response.
Nominal Definition Enables Proof
- To prove existence, knowing the nature isn't necessary; a nominal definition suffices.
- Aquinas compares this to physicists searching for "dark matter" without knowing its essence.
From Effects to First Cause
- Aquinas rejects proving God's existence from presumed divine nature.
- He uses Aristotelian scientific method, reasoning from effects to a first cause, identified as God.