“Well-ordered self-love is right and natural.”
- 1225 – March 7, 1274
- Born in the Kingdom of Sicily (Italy)
- Theologian, philosopher
- A representative figure of scholasticism, who systematized the relationship between the doctrines of the Catholic Church and reason through his masterpiece, the Summa Theologica
table of contents
Quote
“Well-ordered self-love is right and natural.”
Explanation
Thomas Aquinas emphasizes that self-love, when properly balanced, is not only acceptable but also natural and morally right. By describing it as “well-ordered,” Aquinas suggests that this form of self-love is grounded in a healthy balance—it does not involve selfishness or an excessive focus on oneself but rather a recognition of one’s own dignity and value. Well-ordered self-love means taking care of oneself in a way that allows one to also fulfill one’s responsibilities toward others and to contribute positively to the greater good.
Aquinas drew inspiration from Aristotle, who also spoke of self-love in the context of virtue. Aquinas understood that individuals have an obligation to respect and care for themselves as part of their duty to God and to others. For Aquinas, well-ordered self-love includes taking care of one’s physical, mental, and spiritual well-being so that one can better serve others and live a life that aligns with moral virtues. It acknowledges that without a certain level of self-care, it becomes difficult to effectively fulfill one’s duties to others, as one must first be in a state of well-being to support others.
In the modern world, this quote is particularly relevant as people grapple with the concept of self-care and self-worth. Aquinas’s perspective encourages a view of self-love that is healthy and constructive, rather than selfish or self-indulgent. For example, setting boundaries, prioritizing one’s mental health, and ensuring one’s physical well-being are all part of what it means to have well-ordered self-love. This kind of self-care is not only about personal happiness but also about maintaining the capacity to be a positive force for others. Aquinas’s insight helps remind us that valuing and caring for ourselves is fundamental to living virtuously and serving others effectively, as it is only through being at our best that we can give our best.
