Thomas Aquinas: 'Most men seem to live according to sense rather than reason.'

Most men seem to live according to sense rather than reason.

In his timeless wisdom, Thomas Aquinas once observed, "Most men seem to live according to sense rather than reason." This thought-provoking quote serves as an invitation to explore and reflect upon the foundations of human behavior, highlighting the contrast between our capacity for rational thought and our tendency to be driven by our senses. While Aquinas' words may seem straightforward, they allude to a profound philosophical concept known as dualism – the notion that the mind and the body exist as separate entities, each with distinct functions and influences on our thoughts and actions.At first glance, Aquinas' quote speaks to the prevalence of sensory gratification in human lives. We often find ourselves seeking immediate pleasure and comfort, driven by the impulses of our senses. Think about how many decisions we make based on what feels good in the moment: indulging in decadent desserts, succumbing to impulse purchases, or seeking immediate gratification rather than delayed rewards. In a world bombarded by sensory stimuli, it is indeed easy to understand why many individuals prioritize sense over reason.However, to grasp the full significance of Aquinas' quote, we must delve deeper into the realm of philosophy. Dualism, a theory that dates back to Descartes in the 17th century, suggests that the mind and body are distinct entities. According to this perspective, the mind is responsible for rationality, conscious thought, and decision-making, while the body houses our senses, emotions, and physical experiences. This duality creates an intriguing contrast between the impulses we receive from our senses and the logical reasoning facilitated by our minds.Applying this concept to Aquinas' quote, we find that he implies a fundamental conflict between the sensory-driven inclinations of the body and the rational capabilities of the mind. While our senses may lead us astray or cloud our judgment, reason enables us to rise above our immediate desires and make sound decisions. However, the fact that Aquinas felt compelled to remark on this tendency suggests that the prevalence of sense over reason is a prevalent and often baffling phenomenon.To comprehend why sense frequently supersedes reason, we must consider the complexities of the human experience. Our senses are intricately intertwined with emotions and instincts, often playing a significant role in our survival and well-being. Moreover, our senses offer immediate feedback, allowing us to navigate and interact with the world around us efficiently. In contrast, reason is a faculty that requires time, focus, and effort to employ effectively. It necessitates critical thinking, analysis, and the ability to consider long-term consequences – attributes that are not as readily accessible or appealing as the instant gratification our senses can provide.While the dominance of sense may seem inherently problematic, it is essential to recognize that our senses, our emotions, are not necessarily adversaries to reason. Rather, they can coexist harmoniously, playing complementary roles in shaping our experiences and decision-making processes. Our senses provide valuable information about our environment, helping us navigate potential dangers and uncover pleasures, while reason harnesses this data to make informed, long-term choices.As we navigate through life, it is crucial to strike a balance between sense and reason. Denying our senses completely can alienate us from the richness of human experience, rendering us mere detached observers rather than active participants. On the other hand, allowing ourselves to be wholly governed by our senses without engaging in rational thought can lead to impulsive and shortsighted decisions, potentially impacting our overall well-being and fulfillment.Aquinas' astute observation about the prevalence of sensory-driven living invites us to reflect on our own lives and the extent to which we let our senses guide our decisions. By acknowledging the duality and interplay between sense and reason, we can strive for a more harmonious existence – one that embraces the sensory pleasures life offers while harnessing the power of reason to make informed choices and pursue a purposeful and meaningful life. Ultimately, by cultivating an awareness of our tendencies towards sensory gratification, we can learn to navigate the delicate balance between our senses and our reason, leading to a more fulfilled and holistic existence.