Philosophy of Soul and Body: From Plato to Aquinas

The Problem of Relations Between Soul and Body

Plato: The Primacy of the Soul

Plato posits that the human being is composed of body and soul, yet the soul takes precedence. It is the source of goodness and rational knowledge, whereas the body is merely a recipient of alamos (desires), carrying passions, animal instincts, and leading to errors in judgment. The human soul is immortal; its union with the body is momentary. Upon death, the soul accesses another dimension to achieve true knowledge before eventually reincarnating.

Plato divides the soul into three parts, each with distinct functions and moral virtues, corresponding to an ideal political state and specific types of citizens. A balanced human requires the rational part to govern the will and instincts.

Hellenism: Individualism and Disengagement

The shift away from politics led to an attitude of disinterest reflected in new philosophies. For Epicurus, a wise man seeking happiness should avoid politics, while Stoics believed one should only participate if necessary. The focus shifted to the individual, highlighting the conflict between social roles and intimate personality. New movements emphasized:

• Individual freedom
• Absence of pain in mind and body
• Self-sufficiency
• Control over mind and body

Christianity: Faith and Divine Revelation

Christianity rests on the belief that truth is revealed by an omnipotent God. Reason must obey the light of faith. Unlike the Greek view, the universe was created from nothing, a concept considered irrational by classical standards. The Bible serves as the sacred repository of God's word.

The Christian Vision of Man

Created in God's image, man is the center of creation—contingent and finite, yet possessing inherent dignity and equality. The immortal soul links man to the Creator, allowing for the resurrection of the material body. However, the body incites the soul to sin. At the end of time, humanity will rise in both body and soul.

Human Morality

Morality depends on the laws of God rather than reason alone. Humans are free to accept or reject God's word, bearing responsibility for their salvation or condemnation.

St. Thomas Aquinas: The Aristotelian Synthesis

A follower of Aristotle, Aquinas argues that nature is composed of body and soul. The soul is the incorruptible, primary principle of life, while the body is material and corruptible. Their union is beneficial, as the soul perceives sensations through the body. Aquinas defines man as a rational animal with specific obligations:

• Preservation of human life
• Care and education of children
• Moral obligation to seek truth
• Avoiding ignorance
• Practicing justice and respect for fellow citizens