The Thomistic view of happiness is rooted in the philosophical and theological teachings of St. Thomas Aquinas, a medieval Catholic philosopher and theologian. Aquinas’s understanding of happiness is deeply influenced by the works of Aristotle, particularly his concept of eudaimonia (flourishing or well-being), but Aquinas also integrates Christian theology into his view.
Here are the key aspects of the Thomistic view of happiness:
1. Ultimate End:
- According to Aquinas, happiness (or beatitudo) is the ultimate end or purpose (telos) of human life. All human actions are directed toward achieving happiness, which he understands as the fulfillment of human nature.
2. Natural and Supernatural Happiness:
- Aquinas distinguishes between two levels of happiness:
- Natural Happiness: This is the happiness that can be achieved through the use of reason and virtue in this life. It is similar to Aristotle’s concept of flourishing through virtuous living.
- Supernatural Happiness: This is the ultimate form of happiness, which Aquinas identifies as the Beatific Vision—the direct, eternal, and intimate vision of God in the afterlife. This form of happiness transcends natural human abilities and is a gift of divine grace.
3. Virtue and Moral Life:
- For Aquinas, living a virtuous life is essential to achieving happiness. Virtues like prudence, justice, fortitude, and temperance align human desires and actions with reason, leading to natural happiness. However, the theological virtues (faith, hope, and charity) are necessary for attaining supernatural happiness.
4. God as the Source of Happiness:
- Aquinas argues that true happiness cannot be found in material goods, wealth, pleasure, or even human relationships, as these are finite and imperfect. The ultimate and perfect happiness is found in God, who is infinite and the ultimate good. Therefore, union with God is the ultimate goal of human life and the source of complete happiness.
5. Happiness as a State of Being:
- Aquinas emphasizes that happiness is not merely an emotional state or a fleeting feeling but a stable state of being, characterized by the fulfillment of one’s nature and the realization of one’s highest potential, which is union with God.
In summary, the Thomistic view of happiness is a comprehensive understanding that encompasses both the natural pursuit of happiness through virtue and reason in this life and the ultimate supernatural happiness found in union with God in the afterlife
Thanks to ChatGPT for the help in crafting this post!