Summa Theologica

Definition

The 'Summa Theologica' is a comprehensive work of Christian theology written by Thomas Aquinas in the 13th century. It systematically addresses various theological questions and doctrines, making it a foundational text in Western philosophy and the philosophy of religion. This work connects faith and reason, seeking to explain the relationship between divine revelation and human understanding.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The 'Summa Theologica' is divided into three main parts: the first addresses God and creation, the second discusses human actions and ethics, and the third focuses on Christ and the sacraments.
2. Aquinas employs a dialectical method in the 'Summa', posing objections to his own arguments before providing responses, which helps clarify complex theological concepts.
3. The work emphasizes the compatibility of faith and reason, arguing that both are necessary for understanding truth.
4. It has had a profound influence on both Catholic theology and Western philosophy, shaping subsequent discussions on ethics, metaphysics, and epistemology.
5. Aquinas's 'Summa' remains a key text in academic theology and is frequently referenced in discussions about the philosophy of religion.

Review Questions

• How does Thomas Aquinas's 'Summa Theologica' address the relationship between faith and reason?
  • In the 'Summa Theologica', Aquinas argues that faith and reason are complementary rather than contradictory. He believes that while faith provides insights into divine mysteries beyond human comprehension, reason plays a crucial role in understanding those mysteries. Aquinas systematically demonstrates how rational inquiry can lead to truths about God, thus bridging the gap between theology and philosophy.
• Evaluate the significance of the Five Ways in Aquinas's argument for the existence of God within the 'Summa Theologica'.
  • The Five Ways are essential to Aquinas's proof for God's existence, showcasing his methodical approach to theology. Each argument addresses different aspects of existence, such as motion, causation, and contingency, demonstrating how they logically point to a First Cause or necessary being—God. This systematic presentation not only solidifies Aquinas's philosophical position but also influences future discussions on natural theology.
• Critically analyze how the 'Summa Theologica' has shaped modern discussions in the philosophy of religion regarding ethics and morality.
  • The 'Summa Theologica' has profoundly impacted modern philosophical discourse on ethics by establishing a framework that connects moral principles to divine law. Aquinas's exploration of natural law within this work argues that moral truths are accessible through human reason, which has inspired contemporary debates about morality's basis—whether it is grounded in divine command or can be understood independently through rational thought. This has led to ongoing dialogues between secular ethics and religious moral frameworks in today's philosophical landscape.

Related terms

Aquinas:

Thomas Aquinas was a medieval philosopher and theologian known for his influential works that integrate Aristotelian philosophy with Christian doctrine.

Natural Theology:

Natural theology refers to knowledge of God and religious truth that can be derived from nature and reason, rather than from divine revelation.

Five Ways: The Five Ways are five arguments proposed by Aquinas in the 'Summa Theologica' that aim to demonstrate the existence of God through reason.