On Being And Essence by Thomas Aquinas - Exam
- 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 political structure of medieval society
B) The principles of biblical interpretation
C) The metaphysical distinction between being and essence
D) The scientific method of inquiry
- 2. According to Aquinas, what is 'essence'?
A) Where a thing exists
B) When a thing was created
C) How a thing acts
D) What a thing is
- 3. Which term does Aquinas use for the principle of individuation?
A) Accidental properties
B) Designated matter
C) Substantial form
D) Divine will
- 4. How does Aquinas define 'substance'?
A) A being that exists in itself
B) A physical object with mass
C) A property of another being
D) A mental concept only
- 5. What are 'accidents' according to Aquinas?
A) Mistakes in nature
B) Illusions of the senses
C) Random events without cause
D) Properties that exist in a substance
- 6. What does Aquinas mean by 'quiddity'?
A) The location of a thing
B) The quality of a thing
C) The quantity of a thing
D) The essence or whatness of a thing
- 7. How does Aquinas define 'form'?
A) The material component of a thing
B) The external shape of a thing
C) The determining principle of a thing
D) The accidental quality of a thing
- 8. How does Aquinas argue we know essences?
A) Through innate ideas
B) Through abstraction from sense experience
C) Through logical deduction alone
D) Through direct divine revelation
- 9. What is the relationship between essence and definition?
A) Definition denies the essence
B) Definition expresses the essence
C) Definition is unrelated to essence
D) Definition creates the essence
- 10. What is the ultimate source of all being according to Aquinas?
A) God as pure existence
B) Material particles
C) Human consciousness
D) Natural laws
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