“As regards the individual nature, woman is defective and misbegotten, for the active power of the male seed tends to the production of a perfect likeness in the masculine sex; while the production of a woman comes from defect in the active power.”
- 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
Quote
“As regards the individual nature, woman is defective and misbegotten, for the active power of the male seed tends to the production of a perfect likeness in the masculine sex; while the production of a woman comes from defect in the active power.”
Explanation
In this quote, Thomas Aquinas expresses a view on gender that reflects the cultural and scientific beliefs of his time. Aquinas considers woman as somehow “defective” in terms of individual nature, suggesting that the male is the ideal outcome of biological reproduction while the production of a woman represents a “defect” in the process. This view was based on the biological theories of his era, particularly those derived from Aristotle, who held that the male represented the more “perfect” form and that female offspring were the result of some deficiency in the reproductive process. Aquinas was heavily influenced by these early concepts of biology, which lacked the scientific understanding of genetics and reproduction that we have today.
In Aquinas’s time, the 13th century, gender roles were strictly defined, and women were often considered inferior in physical, intellectual, and even moral capacities. Aquinas’s interpretation was not unique; it reflected prevailing societal beliefs, as well as the influence of ancient Greek philosophy, which often characterized women as lesser versions of men. However, it is important to note that, despite these statements, Aquinas also acknowledged the equal spiritual worth of men and women in the eyes of God. He believed that both men and women were created in the image of God and were capable of attaining salvation and virtue, even if their physical nature was perceived differently.
From a modern perspective, this quote is deeply problematic and reflects an outdated understanding of both biology and gender equality. Today, science recognizes that male and female are both natural and intended outcomes of the reproductive process, with neither being inherently superior. Moreover, modern perspectives on gender emphasize equality and mutual respect, recognizing that both men and women have unique strengths and capacities that contribute to society. Aquinas’s view serves as a reminder of the cultural and historical context in which ideas develop, and it underscores the need to critically evaluate and challenge those aspects of historical thought that no longer align with our current understanding of human dignity and equality.
