Aquinas on Faith, Reason, and Charity

This book offers a new reading of Aquinass views on faith, arguing that the theological nature of faith is crucial to his thought and gives rise to a particular and otherwise incomprehensible relationship with reason. It examines modern and contemporary accounts of the relationship between faith and reason in Aquinass thought and offers a comprehensive account of his view of faith, focusing on the divine grace and charity shaping the relationship between evidence and human will. It argues that employing the specificity of faith may constitute the best way to promote autonomous and successful rational investigations.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 196 pages
Publication date: 29 January 2024
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This book offers a fresh interpretation of Aquinas' views on faith, contending that the theological essence of faith is central to his thought and establishes a unique and otherwise incomprehensible relationship with reason. The first part delves into various contemporary and modern accounts of the interplay between faith and reason in Aquinas' philosophy, highlighting their shortcomings due to their adherence to a Lockean perspective, which treats the relationship between faith and reason solely through the lens of evidence. In essence, the Lockean view disregards the distinct nature of the Christian faith and the specific manner in which it must relate to reason.

The second part presents a comprehensive account of Aquinas' perspective on faith. It emphasizes how divine grace and charity shape the interplay between evidence and human will. The final part brings these ideas together, demonstrating how Christian faith, characterized by its theological nature, can coexist harmoniously with rational debate. Furthermore, the book argues that embracing the specificity of faith can be the most effective approach to fostering autonomous and successful rational investigations.

Aquinas on Faith, Reason, and Charity will appeal to scholars and advanced students engaged in the study of Aquinas, philosophy of religion, Christian theology, and medieval philosophy. It provides a valuable contribution to the ongoing exploration of these complex and profound topics, offering a fresh perspective that challenges traditional interpretations and sheds light on the enduring significance of Aquinas' thought.

Weight: 306g
Dimension: 228 x 151 x 13 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032194080