Aquinas

Question 1

What is St. Thomas Aquinas’ approach to the problem of faith and reason?

Answer 1

He says that results of faith are more certain than those of reason because it is based on direct revelation of God, who is closer to the source of all truth than human philosophy.

“Faith is not contrary to reason, but above reason.”

Question 2

How does St. Thomas Aquinas interpret the concept of dominion?

Answer 2

Slavery: There is no slavery in the state of nature.
Office of Governing and Directing Free Men: Compatible with the state of innocence.

Question 3

What are the two reasons for the necessity of government, according to St. Thomas Aquinas?

Answer 3

1. Man is social and political.
2. Some are superior and must be such for the benefit of all by being the leader.

Question 4

What is St. Thomas Aquinas’ ideal form of government?

Answer 4

Elective kingship; similar to the rule of god

Question 5

Among the two types of tyranny, where does St. Thomas Aquinas endorse civil disobedience and tyrannicide?

Answer 5

Excessive Tyranny

Question 6

Why does St. Thomas Aquinas discourage resistance to minor tyranny?

Answer 6

It might lead to worse tyranny.

Question 7

How does St. Thomas Aquinas conceptualize peace?

Answer 7

Unity. One ruler - likely to maintain peace that goes with complete unity than government made up of several persons.

Question 8

What are the kinds of law, according to St. Thomas Aquinas?

Answer 8

1. Eternal law - God’s plan for all things
2. Natural law - man’s active rationality
3. Divine law - God’s revelations
4. Human law - ordinance of reason for the common good