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Common Quote by Thomas Aquinas

“Man should not consider his material possession his own, but as common to all, so as to share them without hesitation when others are in need.” quote by Thomas Aquinas
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“Man should not consider his material possession his own, but as common to all, so as to share them without hesitation when others are in need.”

Thomas Aquinas

About This Quote

Source Treat: Summa Theologiae, Part I, Question 73, 1265

We should view possessions as shared resources, not personal property, and give them freely to those in need.

In simple terms: Share possessions, help others.

Key Takeaway

Give without hesitation.

Themes

generity community ethics

Mood

compassionate reflective

Type

ethical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • charitable giving
  • emergency aid
  • community support

Key Concepts

Christian doctrine common good

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can we balance personal ownership with communal sharing?
  • What limits exist for sharing resources?
A Different Perspective

Assumes equal access to resources, which may not be realistic.

3.5 out of 5 (4 ratings)

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