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Delve into the Depths of Evil with Aquinas: Disputed Questions on Evil

Jamison Cox

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Published in Aquinas S Disputed Questions On Evil: A Critical Guide (Cambridge Critical Guides)

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Prepare to embark on an intellectual journey into the enigmatic realm of evil with St. Thomas Aquinas's profound work, "Disputed Questions on Evil." This seminal treatise delves into the intricate nature of evil, providing a comprehensive analysis and insightful arguments that have shaped Christian thought for centuries.

Aquinas's Disputed Questions on Evil: A Critical Guide (Cambridge Critical Guides)

by M. V. Dougherty

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	908 KB
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Print length	:	263 pages

Aquinas Disputed Questions On Evil Book Cover Aquinas S Disputed Questions On Evil: A Critical Guide (Cambridge Critical Guides)

Exploring the Essence of Evil

Aquinas begins by grappling with the fundamental question: What is evil? He argues that evil is not a substance or a thing that exists in its own right. Rather, it is a privation or absence of good. In essence, evil arises when good is diminished or corrupted.

The Types of Evil

Aquinas further distinguishes between three types of evil:

Natural Evil: Misfortunes caused by natural forces, such as earthquakes or diseases.
Moral Evil: Actions committed by human beings that deviate from the moral law.
Supernatural Evil: Activities instigated by fallen angels or demons that oppose God's will.

The Origin of Evil

Aquinas's exploration of evil extends to its origins. He rejects the notion that God created evil and argues instead that evil arises from the misuse of free will granted to creatures. By choosing to turn away from God and the good, creatures introduce evil into the world.

The Problem of Evil

One of the central questions in the philosophy of religion is the problem of evil: If God is all-powerful, all-good, and all-knowing, why does evil exist? Aquinas tackles this challenging issue, offering a nuanced explanation that reconciles the existence of evil with the nature of God.

The Role of Grace and Free Will

Aquinas emphasizes the importance of both grace and free will in the face of evil. He argues that God's grace provides the necessary assistance for individuals to overcome evil, while their free will allows them to choose between good and evil.

The Triumph of Good over Evil

Despite the presence of evil in the world, Aquinas ultimately affirms the triumph of good. He believes that God's plan for creation includes the eventual triumph of good over evil, both in the individual soul and in the cosmic Free Download.

"Disputed Questions on Evil" by St. Thomas Aquinas is an indispensable work for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the nature of evil and its place in the grand scheme of things. Its profound insights and comprehensive analysis continue to resonate with readers today, providing a valuable framework for grappling with one of the most fundamental questions of human existence.

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Embark on this transformative intellectual journey by Free Downloading your copy of "Disputed Questions on Evil" today. Delve into the depths of Aquinas's thought and gain a profound understanding of the enigma of evil.

Aquinas's Disputed Questions on Evil: A Critical Guide (Cambridge Critical Guides)

by M. V. Dougherty

5 out of 5