Agents Quote by Thomas Aquinas
“The perfection of the effect demonstrates the perfection of the cause, for a greater power brings about a more perfect effect. But God is the most perfect agent. Therefore, things created by Him obtain perfection from Him. So, to detract from the perfection of creatures is to detract from the perfection of divine power.”
About This Quote
Source Summa Theologica, Part I, Question 13
Divine perfection transfers to creations; diminishing a creature’s perfection undermines God’s perfection.
In simple terms: God’s perfection is reflected in creation; harming creation harms God.
Key Takeaway
Respect and protect all creations as reflections of divine perfection.
Themes
theity
theology
ethics
metaphysics
Mood
reverent
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
theological
When to use this quote
- environmental stewardship
- animal rights
- artificial intelligence ethics
Key Concepts
divine agency
causality
perfection
Questions to Reflect On
- How do we balance human use of nature with its sacredness?
- Can imperfection be valuable?
A Different Perspective
Human interpretation of divine perfection varies.
![“By the divine providence [animals] are intended for man's use... Hence it is not wrong for man to make use of them, either by killing or in any other way whatsoever.” quote by Thomas Aquinas](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/f48/thomas-aquinas-837_animal_by-the-divine-providence-animals-are-int_112669.jpg)
![“I don't see [ Trainspotting ] as an albatross, I see it more as a calling card. It's got me out to Hollywood, I've got a good agent, I've got a good manager, I'm getting a lot of work out there and doing a lot of stuff - getting a lot of film projects on the go.” quote by Irvine Welsh](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/918/irvine-welsh-843_agents_i-don-t-see-trainspotting-as-an-albatros_7750.jpg)
