The Thomistic Institute
The Common Good, Political Order and God | Dr. Steve Long
Apr 3, 2019
Dr. Steve Long discusses Thomas Aquinas' teachings on the common good, exploring its importance in political society, legal justice, and divine law. He delves into the Catholic perspective on the common good versus private goods, highlighting the connection between individual well-being and human perfection. The podcast also covers topics such as sacrifice, intrinsic and extrinsic common goods, and the foundation of natural law derived from God. Additionally, there is a discussion on religious liberty, politics, and divine law, emphasizing the balance between individual conscience and the state's duties.
40:32
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Quick takeaways
- The common good is an intrinsic principle in Catholic tradition encompassing moral, metaphysical, and theological aspects.
- Virtuous living is crucial for a community's happiness, emphasizing the role of law in guiding individuals to their proper virtues.
Deep dives
The Centrality of the Common Good
The common good is portrayed as an intrinsic principle across moral, metaphysical, and theological realms in Catholic tradition. The work of Thomas Aquinas explicates the common good as a teleological and essential principle within natural and divine law. A distinction is drawn between the common good as viewed in Gaudium et Spes and the deeper understanding within the Catholic tradition.
