“Moral science is better occupied when treating of friendship than of justice.”
- 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
“Moral science is better occupied when treating of friendship than of justice.”
Explanation
Thomas Aquinas is suggesting that friendship holds a central and even more impactful role in the study of moral philosophy than justice. He emphasizes that friendship embodies a higher level of virtue because it is rooted in love, mutual respect, and voluntary goodwill. While justice involves treating others fairly and fulfilling one’s obligations, friendship goes beyond mere obligation—it involves genuine concern for the well-being of others. For Aquinas, friendship encourages individuals to act out of love and virtue, fostering relationships that are more profound and inherently positive compared to relationships formed by adherence to justice alone.
Aquinas was influenced by Aristotelian ethics, which placed significant importance on friendship as essential to a well-lived life. In Aristotle’s view, friendship was not just a personal relationship but a foundation for social harmony and the flourishing of individuals within a community. Aquinas took this idea further by integrating it into his Christian worldview, emphasizing that friendship embodies charity and leads people toward virtue in a more profound way than justice alone. He believed that friendship motivates individuals to go beyond what is required by law or duty, promoting selflessness and compassion as central virtues.
In the modern context, Aquinas’s insight is particularly relevant in understanding the role of relationships in creating a just and compassionate society. Justice is essential for maintaining order and ensuring fairness, but it can often be impersonal, focused solely on adhering to laws or fulfilling obligations. Friendship, on the other hand, adds a dimension of empathy and genuine care, making interactions more meaningful and fostering stronger communities. For example, while justice might compel someone to help others out of a sense of duty, friendship motivates them to help out of love and concern. Aquinas’s perspective encourages us to prioritize building authentic relationships, as these connections bring out the best in human nature and create a foundation for a more harmonious and virtuous society.
