Question

Aquina's argument for gradations of goodness conclude that ________

Answer 1

Aquina's argument for gradations of goodness concludes that there are varying levels or degrees of goodness in different entities or actions.

Step-by-step explanation:

In Aquinas's philosophy, the argument for gradations of goodness is rooted in his understanding of the hierarchy of existence and the divine order. According to Aquinas, goodness is a transcendental property that exists in varying degrees in different entities. The highest degree of goodness, according to Aquinas, is found in God, who is the source of all goodness. In this hierarchical framework, entities or actions closer to God's nature possess a higher degree of goodness, while those farther away have a lower degree.

Aquina's argument draws from his belief in the Great Chain of Being, a concept that orders all existence from the lowest to the highest, with God at the summit. Each level in this chain represents a gradation of goodness, with entities at higher levels possessing greater perfection and goodness. This concept has significant implications for ethics and morality, as Aquinas argues that moral actions can be evaluated based on their proximity to the highest good, which is God. Consequently, actions aligned with God's nature are considered morally superior.

In summary, Aquina's argument for gradations of goodness is a fundamental aspect of his philosophical framework, emphasizing the hierarchical nature of existence and the varying degrees of goodness in different entities or actions based on their proximity to the divine source of all goodness.

Answer 2

Aquinas's argument for gradations of goodness concludes that goodness exists on a spectrum rather than being a binary concept.

Step-by-step explanation:

Aquinas's argument is based on the premise that things can be good in various ways and to differing degrees. According to Aquinas, goodness is not a singular quality but a characteristic that can be present in things in different measures, allowing for a hierarchy or scale of goodness.

For instance, in ethics, actions can be morally good to varying extents based on their conformity to moral principles. Similarly, in aesthetics, beauty can be perceived in degrees within different objects or artworks.

Aquinas's conclusion emphasizes the diversity and complexity of goodness, suggesting that it is not confined to a simple dichotomy of good or bad but spans a range of levels and expressions within the nature of things.