Aquinas wondered what would happen if God wanted to…
““Aquinas wondered what would happen if God wanted to achieve universal resurrection. In other words, bringing everybody who had ever lived back to life at the same time. What would happen to cannibals, and the people they ate? You couldn't bring them all back at the same time, because the cannibals are made of the people they have eaten. You could have one but not the other. Ha.' I looked at Rowan. 'That's a good example of a paradox.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
A thought experiment about universal resurrection reveals paradoxes when the resurrected include both predators and prey, highlighting logical impossibilities.
In simple terms: Resurrecting everyone creates impossible contradictions.
Key Takeaway
Consider logical limits of grand ideas.
Themes
philosophy
paradox
theology
Mood
thoughtful
curious
Type
philosophical
analytical
When to use this quote
- science fiction
- theological debate
- ethical committees
Key Concepts
universal resurrection
identity
ethical dilemmas
Questions to Reflect On
- What does this paradox say about limits of power?
- Can any system resolve such contradictions?
A Different Perspective
Some may argue metaphysical solutions exist.