NCM108

WEEK 2
ST. THOMAS AQUINAS
ST. THOMAS AQUINAS THE VIRTUES
• (1225–1244) • Aquinas agrees with Aristotle that the particulars of the
• an Italian philosopher and theologian situation have to be considered in determining what
• known as the Angelic Doctor and the Prince of course of action should be done. To act well in each
Scholastics situation, one however will always need the so-called
• regarded as one of the most significant philosophers of virtues.
the Middle Ages. • Aquinas says that there are moral virtues and intellectual
virtues.
ETHICS
• Aquinas believes that all actions are directed towards MORAL VIRTUES
ends and that happiness is the final end. • is what we most need in this life.
• disposes us to act well and it requires more than simply
LAW knowing.
• Law is an ordinance of reason for the common good, • Moral Virtue moderates our passion so that we can act
promulgated by someone who has care of the according to reason for the true good.
community. • Justice - the constant and perpetual will to give others
their due.
TYPES OF LAWS • Fortitude (Courage) - the virtuous resolve to achieve a
ETERNAL LAW good that is difficult to obtain.
• refers to the rational plan of God by which all creation is • Temperance - the virtuous moderation of sense
ordered. pleasure.
• Prudence - right reason in things to be done.
DIVINE LAW
• is a law of revelation, disclosed through sacred text or THEOLOGICAL VIRTUES
Scriptures and the Church which is also directed toward • The theological virtues, on the other hand, are concerned
man’s eternal end. directly with God.
• They provide us with true knowledge and desire of God
NATURAL LAW and of His will.
• is that aspect of the eternal law which is accessible to • Faith, Hope, and Love serve to attune us to our final end,
human reason. which is God himself.

HUMAN LAW
• is an ordinance of reason for the common good made
and enforced by a ruler or government.

THE NATURAL LAW AND ETHICS

• According to Aquinas, this natural law is knowable by
natural reason. For instance, our practical reason
naturally comprehends that good is to be promoted and
evil is to be avoided.

FEATURES OF HUMAN ACTION

Three Aspects through which the morality of an act to be
determined

• Species
o Good
o Bad
o Some indifferent or neutral
• Accidents
o refer to the circumstances surrounding the
action.
• End
o stands for the agent's intention. An act might be
unjust through its intention.

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