Thomas Aquinas: 'Perfection of moral virtue does not wholly take away the passions, but regulates them.'

Perfection of moral virtue does not wholly take away the passions, but regulates them.

In his profound statement, Thomas Aquinas posits that the perfection of moral virtue does not eradicate human passions entirely but rather serves to regulate them. This quote encapsulates the essence of human nature and sheds light on the intricate relationship between virtue and our inherent emotional inclinations. Aquinas suggests that achieving moral excellence does not require the suppression or elimination of our passions, but rather the harmonious guidance and control over them. This concept holds great significance as it challenges the notion that striving for virtue necessitates the negation of our inherent human nature.Aquinas' quote invites us to examine the intricate interplay between morality and our passions. At first glance, one might assume that moral perfection necessitates a complete eradication of our emotions or passions. However, Aquinas challenges this conventional wisdom, asserting that our passions can coexist with moral virtue. Rather than suppressing or dismissing these emotions, Aquinas advocates for their regulation, emphasizing the importance of temperance and control. This notion introduces a unique and thought-provoking perspective on the relationship between our moral compass and the surges of our human nature.To delve deeper into this subject matter, it is intriguing to introduce the concept of Stoicism, an ancient Greek philosophy that placed great emphasis on the regulation of emotions. Stoicism argues that attaining tranquility and virtue requires the development of an indomitable inner strength that enables one to navigate the trials and tribulations of life. While there might be some similarities between Aquinas' idea of regulating passions and Stoicism's emphasis on emotional regulation, it is essential to note the nuanced distinctions between the two.Aquinas asserts that moral perfection involves the regulation of passions, whereas Stoicism argues for their suppression through cultivating emotional detachment. Aquinas acknowledges the inherent emotional aspects of human nature, advocating for their disciplined guidance rather than their complete elimination. In contrast, Stoicism emphasizes the eradication of emotions and the acquisition of emotional apathy as the path to tranquility and virtue.One can argue that Aquinas' perspective offers a more holistic approach to moral excellence. By recognizing the significance of our passions within the moral framework, Aquinas offers a balanced perspective that acknowledges and embraces the multifaceted nature of human existence. Rather than denying our emotions or seeking to eliminate them, Aquinas urges us to cultivate a harmonious relationship with our passions.Furthermore, by regulating our passions, we can harness their energy to drive and inspire ethical conduct. Our emotions, when regulated and tempered, can serve as powerful motivators, providing us with the impetus to uphold moral principles. Emotions such as empathy, compassion, and love are integral to fostering moral virtues such as kindness, charity, and justice. Therefore, the regulation of passions becomes a key element in nurturing our moral growth.In conclusion, Thomas Aquinas' quote on the perfection of moral virtue and the regulation of passions offers a profound insight into the intricacies of human nature. While moral excellence does not require the complete elimination of our emotions, Aquinas emphasizes the importance of their disciplined regulation. This perspective challenges the conventional belief that virtue necessitates the negation of human nature and presents a more nuanced approach to moral growth. By recognizing and harnessing the power of our emotions, we can cultivate a virtuous existence guided by a delicate balance between our passions and ethical conduct. Aquinas' wisdom invites us to strive for moral excellence while embracing the complexities that make us uniquely human.