Aeternis Patris and Thomism?

[fakename]

Does Aeternis Patris make Thomism the philosophy of Catholics?

why or why not?

 

[1AugustSon7]

Does Aeternis Patris make Thomism the philosophy of Catholics?

why or why not?

I have read a very good article that insisted that the Theologian himself would likely object to the very idea or at least the label of “Thomism.” The Saint saw philosophy as being perennial, and philosophy for him was a unity; and false-philosophies nowhere belonging to that unity. The Church has always spoken of the sacred science, and this is of course a singular unity or body. We can identify that science with the theology and philosophy that was further developed by Saint Thomas. Countless magisterial documents warn against departing from Saint Thomas’ doctrine, insist upon its study, and also teach that anyone who contradicts the Saint’s doctrine is to be presumed a heretic.

We must remember, though, that *the Summa *is the height of the mountain of the Saint’s genius. Especially today, we must begin at the base of that mountain and proceed from there to the summit. We must humbly accept to be taught as babes from the beginning or else we cannot understand what the Master taught. One should not become discouraged, however, but patiently and humbly begin at the base of the mountain (logic) and proceed from there.

I can say that such a pursuit is most satisfying and thoroughly enjoyable, and as these things usually are, it is still nonetheless a challenge. It requires effort and commitment.

 

[Katholish]

Does Aeternis Patris make Thomism the philosophy of Catholics?

why or why not?

Yes and no. It made Thomism the standard, but the Church does not adopt a specific philosophy as such. Thus, it is possible to be a good Catholic but not a Thomist. There are, however, several instances in which a definition of doctrine depends upon an Aristotelean/Thomistic understanding of nature, such as the distinction of substance and accident presented in the doctrine of transubstantiation.