“Whatever is received is received according to the nature of the recipient.”
- 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
“Whatever is received is received according to the nature of the recipient.”
Explanation
Thomas Aquinas expresses the idea that the way knowledge, truth, or experience is received depends on the nature of the recipient. This means that individuals interpret and understand things according to their own capacities, background, and nature. Whether it’s a concept, a piece of knowledge, or even an experience, the way it is understood or internalized will vary depending on the recipient’s intellectual, emotional, and spiritual state. For Aquinas, this underscores the subjectivity inherent in human perception, as people bring their unique perspectives, abilities, and dispositions into their understanding of anything they encounter.
Aquinas’s understanding reflects his belief in the importance of the individual’s role in the process of learning and experiencing truth. During the 13th century, Aquinas was influenced by Aristotelian philosophy, which emphasized the importance of sense perception and individual intellect in acquiring knowledge. He recognized that while truth may be objective, its comprehension is inevitably shaped by the conditions and limitations of the one receiving it. For instance, an educated person and a child might both receive the same piece of information, but their understanding of it would differ significantly based on their prior knowledge and cognitive development.
In modern contexts, this concept highlights the importance of context, background, and perspective in the learning process. For example, educators must consider the level of understanding and experience of their students when presenting new concepts to ensure effective communication. Similarly, cultural differences shape how people interpret symbols, behaviors, and information. Aquinas’s insight encourages empathy and patience in communication, as it reminds us that not everyone will perceive things in the same way, and that understanding is deeply influenced by the nature and experiences of each individual. This recognition can improve dialogue, reduce misunderstandings, and foster more effective interactions in both personal and professional contexts.
