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Different level Quote by Thomas Aquinas

“For every relationship involves two related terms. Sometimes relationships are not real in either term, but arise from the way we think of the terms: we think identity, for example, by thinking one thing twice over and relating it to itself; and occasionally we relate what exists to what does not…” quote by Thomas Aquinas
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““For every relationship involves two related terms. Sometimes relationships are not real in either term, but arise from the way we think of the terms: we think identity, for example, by thinking one thing twice over and relating it to itself; and occasionally we relate what exists to what does not exist, or generate purely logical relations like that of genus to species. Sometimes relationships are real in both terms: grounded in the quantity of both, in the case of relationships like big/small or double/half, or in their activity and passivity, in the case of causal relationships, like mover-moved and father/son. Sometimes relationships are real in only one of the terms, with the other merely thought of as related [reciprocally] to that one; and this happens whenever the two terms exist at different levels. Thus seeing and understanding really relates us to things, but being seen and understood by us is not something real in the things; and similarly a pillar to the right of us does not itself have a left and a right.””

Thomas Aquinas

About This Quote

Source Treatilosophical Treatise: Summa Theologica, Book I, 1265

Relationships can be real or conceptual, existing in both terms, one term, or only in thought, highlighting how we construct meaning through comparison and hierarchy.

In simple terms: Relationships are built by how we think about things.

Key Takeaway

Consider the nature of connections you form.

Themes

philosophy logic metaphysics relationships ontology

Mood

analytical thoughtful

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • academic discussion
  • personal relationships
  • teaching
  • problem solving

Key Concepts

Identity causality hierarchy conceptual mapping

Questions to Reflect On

  • Do you see more real or conceptual relationships in your life?
  • How do hierarchies shape your interactions?
A Different Perspective

Abstract analysis may overlook emotional aspects of relationships.

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