On Being And Essence by Thomas Aquinas
- 1. On Being and Essence is a seminal work by the medieval philosopher Thomas Aquinas that delves into the profound distinctions between 'being' and 'essence.' In this text, Aquinas explores the fundamental nature of existence, positing that 'being' pertains to the actual existence of things, while 'essence' refers to what a thing is—its defining characteristics that make it what it is. Aquinas draws heavily from Aristotelian philosophy, using it as a foundation to develop his own theological and metaphysical insights. He argues that understanding the difference between essence and being is crucial for grasping the nature of God and the Created order. God's essence, Aquinas posits, is to exist, which sets Him apart from created beings whose essence is distinct from their existence. This work thus serves as a pivotal text in scholastic philosophy, influencing subsequent theological discussion regarding the nature of reality, the existence of God, and the relationship between the Creator and the created.
What is the primary subject of Thomas Aquinas' 'On Being and Essence'?
A) The metaphysical distinction between being and essence
B) The scientific method of inquiry
C) The principles of biblical interpretation
D) The political structure of medieval society
- 2. According to Aquinas, what is 'essence'?
A) How a thing acts
B) Where a thing exists
C) When a thing was created
D) What a thing is
- 3. Which term does Aquinas use for the principle of individuation?
A) Divine will
B) Accidental properties
C) Designated matter
D) Substantial form
- 4. How does Aquinas define 'substance'?
A) A being that exists in itself
B) A property of another being
C) A mental concept only
D) A physical object with mass
- 5. What are 'accidents' according to Aquinas?
A) Illusions of the senses
B) Random events without cause
C) Mistakes in nature
D) Properties that exist in a substance
- 6. What does Aquinas mean by 'quiddity'?
A) The essence or whatness of a thing
B) The quantity of a thing
C) The quality of a thing
D) The location of a thing
- 7. How does Aquinas define 'form'?
A) The material component of a thing
B) The accidental quality of a thing
C) The determining principle of a thing
D) The external shape of a thing
- 8. How does Aquinas argue we know essences?
A) Through innate ideas
B) Through logical deduction alone
C) Through abstraction from sense experience
D) Through direct divine revelation
- 9. What is the relationship between essence and definition?
A) Definition denies the essence
B) Definition is unrelated to essence
C) Definition creates the essence
D) Definition expresses the essence
- 10. What is the ultimate source of all being according to Aquinas?
A) Human consciousness
B) Material particles
C) God as pure existence
D) Natural laws
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