“Because of the diverse conditions of humans, it happens that some acts are virtuous to some people, as appropriate and suitable to them, while the same acts are immoral for others, as inappropriate to them.”
- 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
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Quote
“Because of the diverse conditions of humans, it happens that some acts are virtuous to some people, as appropriate and suitable to them, while the same acts are immoral for others, as inappropriate to them.”
Explanation
Thomas Aquinas, in this quote, touches upon the concept of moral relativity that arises from the diverse circumstances of human life. Aquinas acknowledges that moral actions are not always universally applicable; what is virtuous for one person might be considered inappropriate or immoral for another, depending on their specific situation, context, or conditions. This reflects Aquinas’s broader understanding of natural law, where morality must be considered within the individual context of each person’s life and responsibilities.
Aquinas lived during a time when rigid interpretations of moral laws were common, but his perspective was nuanced. He understood that people have different roles, abilities, and circumstances, which affect what is morally right or wrong for them. For instance, Aquinas might argue that giving up wealth might be a virtuous act for a wealthy person who has abundant resources, but it could be an impractical or harmful decision for someone who is already struggling to provide for their family. He believed that the moral evaluation of an action must take into account the particularities of each individual, emphasizing the importance of prudence—the ability to judge correctly what is right in a given situation.
In modern society, Aquinas’s view remains relevant, especially in ethical discussions involving cultural diversity, personal circumstances, and individual autonomy. For example, dietary restrictions, social customs, or even moral stances on issues like self-defense may vary depending on a person’s culture, background, or situation. Aquinas’s insight reminds us that morality is not always a one-size-fits-all concept and that understanding different perspectives and contexts is key to making fair and compassionate judgments. His approach encourages the use of empathy and discernment in evaluating the morality of actions, considering what is appropriate for each person’s unique conditions.
