“We can’t have full knowledge all at once. We must start by believing; then afterwards we may be led on to master the evidence for ourselves.”
- 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
“We can’t have full knowledge all at once. We must start by believing; then afterwards we may be led on to master the evidence for ourselves.”
Explanation
In this quote, Thomas Aquinas highlights the importance of belief as a starting point in the pursuit of knowledge. He acknowledges that full understanding is not something that can be achieved instantly; rather, it is a gradual process that begins with faith or acceptance of certain truths before they can be fully understood through reason and evidence. Aquinas emphasizes that the journey of knowledge requires an initial willingness to trust what we have yet to understand, which eventually leads to deeper comprehension and mastery of the evidence.
Aquinas’s approach reflects his belief in the harmonious relationship between faith and reason. During the 13th century, he worked to integrate Christian theology with Aristotelian philosophy, suggesting that belief is not opposed to reason but can actually lead to a more profound understanding. Aquinas believed that certain truths, especially those of a spiritual nature, must initially be accepted through faith because they surpass the immediate capacity of human reason. However, as one grows in knowledge and wisdom, the evidence and rational understanding of these truths become more accessible, leading to a more complete comprehension of the world and the divine.
In modern times, this quote resonates with the learning process in many areas of life. For instance, students often start by trusting their teachers or textbooks, accepting concepts they do not yet fully understand. As they study and gain experience, they begin to grasp the underlying principles and evidence that support those concepts. Aquinas’s insight encourages us to recognize that belief and curiosity are often the starting points of knowledge, and that genuine understanding takes time and persistence. It reminds us that it is natural to begin with some degree of trust, whether in a teacher, a mentor, or a system, and then gradually build our own understanding as we engage with and verify the evidence ourselves.
