The Thomistic Institute Human Nature, Positive Psychology, & Perennial Principles | Fr. James Brent, OP
Sep 25, 2019
Fr. James Brent, OP, discusses human nature, positive psychology, and perennial principles. Topics include comparing Aquinas' views with modern positive psychology, exploring human inclinations, and discussing the importance of understanding God for human fulfillment.
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Positive Psychology's Aim
- Positive psychology aims to provide a scientifically verified account of human flourishing, moving beyond the focus on pathology.
- It builds upon humanistic psychology's emphasis on free will, consciousness, and intentionality.
Metaphysics of Happiness
- Aquinas's metaphysics grounds his view of happiness, unlike positive psychology's silence on ultimate reality.
- He rejects nominalism, affirming that things possess inherent natures or forms.
Teleological Nature
- Aquinas's view is teleological: things have inherent purposes, including humans' drive for happiness.
- This contrasts with the mechanistic view where human purpose appears exceptional.