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So if the ultimate felicity of man does not consist in…

“So if the ultimate felicity of man does not consist in external things which are called the goods of fortune, nor in the goods of the body, nor in the goods of the soul according to its sensitive part, nor as regards the intellective part according to the activity of the moral virtues, nor…” quote by Thomas Aquinas
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““So if the ultimate felicity of man does not consist in external things which are called the goods of fortune, nor in the goods of the body, nor in the goods of the soul according to its sensitive part, nor as regards the intellective part according to the activity of the moral virtues, nor according to the intellectual virtues that are concerned with action, that is art and prudence – we are left with the conclusion that the ultimate felicity of man lies the contemplation of truth.””

Thomas Aquinas

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

True happiness stems from contemplating truth, not material or bodily goods, aligning with intellectual virtue.

In simple terms: Truth brings happiness.

Key Takeaway

Seek truth, not wealth.

Themes

philosophy virtue truth

Mood

contemplative serious

Type

philosophical theological

When to use this quote

  • academic study
  • meditation
  • ethical decision‑making
  • spiritual practice

Key Concepts

ethics metaphysics

Questions to Reflect On

  • What truth guides you?
  • How do you balance intellect and emotion?
A Different Perspective

Intellectual pursuit can be isolating.

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