Aristotle vs. Aquinas & Hobbes: Views on Virtue, Happiness, and the Soul

Question 1: Greatness of the Soul

Aristotle's Perspective

Aristotle defines greatness of the soul as moral perfection, encompassing virtues like courage, temperance, wisdom, generosity, strength, and justice. He believes that a virtuous person, incapable of pride, would sacrifice their assets for honor. Achieving greatness of the soul, for Aristotle, is the ultimate path to happiness.

Conflicting Views: Augustine and Hobbes

St. Augustine disagrees, arguing that Aristotle's view promotes self-glory rather than adherence to God's word. Augustine emphasizes the cardinal virtues but stresses the importance of praising God for salvation. Hobbes also diverges from Aristotle, asserting that happiness is not an end in itself but a means to another end.

Humility and Pride

For Aristotle, humility is not a virtue, therefore pride is not an issue.

Question 2: Temperance and Virtue

Aristotle's Definition of Temperance

Aristotle defines temperance as the virtue that moderates desires and pleasures of touch, such as eating, drinking, and sexual intercourse. A temperate person prefers healthy foods over indulgent ones. Aristotle distinguishes humans from animals by our capacity to temper animalistic appetites with reason.

Aquinas's Expansion on Temperance and Virtue

Aquinas, adopting Aristotle's definition of virtue as "an operative habit," expands it to include God's influence. He emphasizes the importance of habits in shaping individuals. Aquinas distinguishes between Natural (Cardinal) virtues, learned through experience and teaching, and Supernatural (Theological) virtues, divinely instilled.

Intellectual Virtues

Aquinas separates intellectual virtues from moral virtues, arguing that intellectual virtues lack the "good habit of the will" essential for true virtues. He identifies five intellectual virtues: science, wisdom, understanding, art, and prudence.

Divergence and the Afterlife

A key difference between Aristotle and Aquinas lies in their beliefs about the afterlife. Aquinas believes in an afterlife, while Aristotle does not. Aquinas posits that Natural/Cardinal virtues lead to a temporary end, while Supernatural/Theological virtues lead to the ultimate, eternal end of happiness and the beatific vision of God.