St. Thomas Aquinas

Question 1

Explain the difference between Aristotle’s view of political animals and St. Thomas Aquinas’ view of social animal

Answer 1

Aristotle: Men cannot live alone; you need to be part of polis as you cannot be truly man if you’re not part of polis
St. Thomas Aquinas: Man is a social animal hence, it must live in group. Man was endowed with reason. One man alone cannot procure all of his necessities for himself. Therefore, it is necessary for man to live in a society of many. It follows that the society will be the more perfect the more it is sufficient unto itself to procure all the necessities of life. Additionally, the social nature of man is rooted in the fact that human beings are rational creatures, capable of language and communication, and therefore have the ability to form relationship with others towards common goals and good.

Question 2

Why is state necessary in comparison with the social nature of man?

Answer 2

Because humans are social animals and cannot flourish in isolation. The state promotes the well-being of citizens and provide for their basic needs such as security and justice. Also, the state should be ruled by a king who is virtuous and just and seeks the common good

Question 3

What are the three roles of the state?

Answer 3

1. To protect internal peace and external order
2. To promote the moral well-being of the citizens (St. Augustine - people going to heaven)
3. To ensure that the basic needs of the citizens are being met.

Question 4

What is the best form of government for St. Thomas?

Answer 4

Monarchy - ruled by one (best version) as it allows for quick decision making and consistency in leadership

Question 5

What are the conditions for tyrannicide?

Answer 5

1. The tyrant is the worst type
2. The person to replace it must represent the people
3. Good plan must be successful

Question 6

What is summa theologica

Answer 6

RGPS
1. Based on men’s reason
2. Promotes common good
3. Promulgated by those in charge of the community
4. Backed up by sanctions

Question 7

What is the natural law?

Answer 7

Natural law is law discerned through men’s reason. It is based on the principle of reason and morality and governs the action of all people

Question 8

For St. Thomas, common good is achieved when

Answer 8

individuals within the community were virtuous and lived in accordance with the natural law

Question 9

Explain the natural law as the basis for common morality

Answer 9

The natural law is based on the principle of reason and morality that governs all the actions of men. It is derived from the human nature itself. We have an inherent understanding of the natural law that guides us to act in accordance with our rational nature and the objective order of the universe. Natural law is universal and applies to all people; it is foundation for all moral and legal systems.