Right Practical Reason: Aristotle, Action, and Prudence in Aquinas (Oxford Theological Monographs) [Hardcover]

Daniel Westberg (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: September 8, 1994 | ISBN-10: 0198267312 | ISBN-13: 978-0198267317

This book is a study of the role of intellect in human action as described by Thomas Aquinas. One of its primary aims is to compare the interpretation of Aristotle by Aquinas with the lines of interpretation offered in contemporary Aristotelian scholarship. The book seeks to clarify the problems involved in the appropriation of Aristotle's theory by a Christian theologian, including such topics as the practical syllogism and the problems of akrasia. Westberg argues that Aquinas was much closer to Aristotle than is often recognized, and he puts forward important new interpretations of the relation of intellect and will in the stages of intention, deliberation, decision, and execution. In the concluding section of the book, he shows how this new interpretation yields fruitful insights on a range of theological topics, including sin, law, love, and the moral virtues.

Editorial Reviews

Review

"Westberg is well-acquainted with recent Aristotelian scholarship, and convincing in his readings of Aquinas's texts....Its meticulous scholarship and its balanced originality make it well worth the effort for anyone who is interested either in the interpretation of Aristotle...or in a more accurate understanding of Aquinas's contribution to the psychology of human action and the nature of good moral decision-making. There is a good index, and an excellent bibliography."--The Heythrop Journal

"...this is a very important book. To any student of Aquinas, Westberg presents a strong bibliography, restores the distinctiveness of prudence, has restructured our understanding of the process of moral reasoning, and highlighted the importance of decision not as a simple act of will, but rather as the act of a rational agent."--Theological Studies

"...anyone with a serious interest in medieval ethics should read Westberg's study."--The Philosophical Review

About the Author

Daniel Westberg is Assistant Professor of Theological Ethics at the University of Virginia.

Product Details

• Hardcover: 296 pages
• Publisher: Oxford University Press, USA (September 8, 1994)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0198267312
• ISBN-13: 978-0198267317
• Product Dimensions: 8.8 x 5.9 x 1 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.2 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #2,401,598 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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