Thomas Aquinas: 'By nature all men are equal in liberty, but not in other endowments.'

By nature all men are equal in liberty, but not in other endowments.

Thomas Aquinas, one of the greatest theologians and philosophers in history, once said, "By nature, all men are equal in liberty, but not in other endowments." At first glance, this quote may seem straightforward, stating that individuals are equal when it comes to their freedom or power of choice, but divergent in other aspects of their being. However, delving deeper into this profound statement unveils a thought-provoking concept that challenges our conventional understanding of equality and prompts us to question our perceptions of human nature.Aquinas highlights the natural equality in liberty that all men possess. This concept asserts that every individual, regardless of their background, social status, or inherent talents, is endowed with the freedom to make choices and act upon them. In this sense, no one has an inherent advantage or disadvantage in their ability to exercise their will. Each person is granted the same agency to shape their own destiny, to pursue their own desires, and to determine the course of their lives.However, Aquinas also acknowledges that individuals are unequal in other endowments – the diverse qualities and attributes that shape each person's unique being. This recognition highlights the inherent differences that exist between individuals by virtue of their talents, intelligence, physical abilities, or personal dispositions. It emphasizes that these differences do not diminish the equality of liberty but rather acknowledge the richness and diversity of human existence.This perspective challenges the prevailing notion of equality, which often seeks to achieve uniformity and homogeneity by disregarding individual disparities. Aquinas reminds us that true equality does not require erasing our differences, but rather recognizing the inherent worth and dignity of every individual, regardless of their disparities.Introducing an unexpected philosophical concept, let us delve into the idea of "communitarian individualism." This concept combines two seemingly contradictory principles – individualism and communitarianism – and harmonizes them into a cohesive framework. Individualism emphasizes the unique value, autonomy, and rights of each individual, while communitarianism underscores the importance of communal well-being, social bonds, and civic responsibility.In the context of Aquinas' quote, communitarian individualism acknowledges that while individuals are endowed with distinct talents, capabilities, and endowments, they are also intertwined within a larger communal fabric. Each individual has a distinctive role and contribution to the well-being of the whole society, a responsibility to support and uplift others within their community. Thus, even though individuals may possess different endowments, their equal liberty calls for a collaborative and interconnected approach, where the pursuit of individual aspirations is harmonized with a commitment to communal welfare.By embracing the concept of communitarian individualism, we can transcend the conventional dichotomy between individual rights and societal obligations. It allows us to foster an inclusive society that celebrates and values the unique gifts and talents of each person, while also recognizing the importance of solidarity and cooperation for the greater good.In conclusion, Thomas Aquinas' quote, "By nature all men are equal in liberty, but not in other endowments," challenges our understanding of equality by emphasizing the inherent liberty of every individual while acknowledging the differences in their endowments. It reminds us that equality is not about erasing disparities but lies in recognizing the worth and dignity of each person. By embracing the concept of communitarian individualism, we can reconcile the tension between personal freedom and communal well-being, fostering a society that appreciates individual diversity and celebrates our collective responsibility.