The 60-Second Aquinas
Lesson
Is Justice Enough?
October 3, 1998
The Golden Rule is "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you," or as quoted in the Bible "Love your neighbor as yourself." Both are akin to Aquinas’ idea of justice as being an equality with relation to others.
But, is this idea of justice enough to define a virtuous person? Aquinas explores this point by asking whether the general virtue of justice is essentially the same as every virtue. It will not be a surprise to hear that Aquinas determines it is not:
"Aristotle observes that many are able to be virtuous in matters affecting themselves though not in matters relating to others. And again, that the virtue of a good man is not simply the same as that of a good citizen" (ST II-II, Q. 58, Art. 6).
Think about this last, and consider this. Having determined that God exists and that God is the ultimate happiness toward which all of our actions should tend and that Mass and prayer are formal ways in which we seek God, is it enough to treat others with respect? Clearly not, for to behave well toward others does not necessitate that you would behave well toward God or in situations not affecting others.
Explanation of The 60-Second Aquinas Lesson
