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 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.””
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.
Consider the nature of connections you form.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- academic discussion
- personal relationships
- teaching
- problem solving
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you see more real or conceptual relationships in your life?
- How do hierarchies shape your interactions?
Abstract analysis may overlook emotional aspects of relationships.