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St. Thomas and reflex principles

Started by ptlopes, July 29, 2024, 05:09:54 PM

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ptlopes

Hello,

Garrigou-Lagrange writes about conscience and probabilism in Reality:

Quote from: Garrigou-LagrangeSt. Thomas, it is true, does cite at times other reflex principles, useful in forming conscience, for example, that in doubt we are to stand by the view which is presumably true. But if he seldom dwells on these reflex principles, it is because he holds that prudential certitude1039 is found in that view which is nearest to evident truth, and most in conformity, not with egoism, but with the inclination to virtue.

Where does St. Thomas teach the principle that "in doubt we are to stand by the view which is presumably true"?

Thanks.
God bless,
Pedro

Geremia

#1
Quote from: ptlopes on July 29, 2024, 05:09:54 PMWhere does St. Thomas teach the principle that "in doubt we are to stand by the view which is presumably true"?
Garrigou-Lagrange, O.P., cites Summa Theologica I-II q. 57 a. 5 ad 3, which contains the famous axiom:
Quote from: St. ThomasVerum [...] intellectus practici accipitur per conformitatem ad appetitum rectum.
[T]he truth of the practical intellect depends on conformity with right appetite.

ptlopes

Hello Geremia,

Isn't Garrigou-Lagrange talking about the reflex principle "when in doubt one must stand by presumption"?

"[T]he truth of the practical intellect depends on conformity with right appetite" isn't a reflex principle, if I'm not mistaken.

Best regards,
Pedro

Geremia

Quote from: ptlopes on July 30, 2024, 10:14:37 AM"[T]he truth of the practical intellect depends on conformity with right appetite" isn't a reflex principle
That's true, but reflex principles follow from it / are an application of it.

ptlopes

How is the reflex principle we're talking about an application of the other principle? I never read about that. 

Thank you for tour answers.

Geremia

Quote from: ptlopes on July 30, 2024, 04:54:59 PMHow is the reflex principle we're talking about an application of the other principle?
Read
Quote from: Geremia on July 29, 2024, 09:13:27 PMGarrigou-Lagrange, O.P., The Order of Things: The Realism of the Principle of Finality ch. 6 "Moral Realism: Finality and the Formation of Conscience"
It discusses reflex principles.