Commentary on Thomas Aquinas's Treatise on Happiness and Ultimate Purpose

A new translation of Thomas Aquinas's classic Treatise on Happiness and Ultimate Purpose, accessible to all readers, with commentary that illuminates challenging arguments about what happiness is and how to attain it.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 704 pages
Publication date: 27 January 2022
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

This extensive and detailed commentary on Thomas Aquinas' renowned Treatise on Happiness and Ultimate Purpose makes it accessible to readers of all levels. Budziszewski delves into complex arguments that even experts find challenging, such as defining happiness, understanding its nature, and determining its source. He explores whether happiness can be attained and examines the underlying issues related to knowledge, meaning, human psychology, and the nature of reality. Through his luminous prose, Budziszewski renders Aquinas' treatise transparent, illuminating profound insights and offering a deeper understanding of these crucial topics.

Introduction:
The Treatise on Happiness and Ultimate Purpose by Thomas Aquinas is a profound exploration of human happiness and its ultimate purpose. In this monumental commentary, Budziszewski takes on the task of making Aquinas' work accessible to a wide audience, including both scholars and laypersons. Through his extensive and detailed analysis, Budziszewski sheds light on the complex arguments and concepts presented in the treatise, making it transparent and engaging for readers of all backgrounds.

Defining Happiness:
One of the central questions addressed in the treatise is the definition of happiness. Budziszewski examines various theories and perspectives on happiness, including those based on pleasure, virtue, and the attainment of ultimate fulfillment. He challenges the notion that happiness is solely a matter of personal pleasure or material possessions and argues that true happiness is rooted in deeper aspects of human existence.

The Nature of Happiness:
Budziszewski explores the nature of happiness and its relationship to human psychology. He examines the role of emotions, desires, and the pursuit of knowledge in shaping our understanding of happiness. He also discusses the concept of human flourishing, which encompasses both emotional well-being and the achievement of meaningful goals.

The Source of Happiness:
The treatise raises the question of the source of happiness. Budziszewski examines various theories on the source of happiness, including those based on divine revelation, human nature, and the pursuit of virtue. He challenges the notion that happiness is solely a result of external factors and argues that true happiness is found within ourselves and our relationships with others.

Attainment of Happiness:
Budziszewski examines the challenges and obstacles to attaining happiness. He discusses the role of human free will, the influence of societal norms and expectations, and the struggle against negative emotions and desires. He offers practical insights and strategies for cultivating happiness and achieving personal fulfillment.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, this extensive and detailed commentary on Thomas Aquinas' Treatise on Happiness and Ultimate Purpose offers a comprehensive and accessible exploration of human happiness and its ultimate purpose. Budziszewski's luminous prose makes Aquinas' treatise transparent, bringing to light profound underlying issues concerning knowledge, meaning, human psychology, and the nature of reality. This book is a valuable resource for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of human happiness and its place in the broader context of human existence.

Weight: 1044g
Dimension: 152 x 228 x 49 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781108745406
Edition number: New ed