The knowledge of the multiple in relation to the order of the transcendentals in Thomas Aquinas and Avicenna

Renzi F. · Revista Chilena de Estudios Medievales (2023)

Resumen

In Avicenna’s philosophy, the transcendentality of the relationship between the one and the multiple is not clear. Unlike Thomas Aquinas, Avicenna believes that the being, the one and the multiple are extrinsic concomitant conditions of the essence. Hence the Avicennaian exclusion of a relationship of consequentiality between primary notions. It is an exclusion that in turn has the consequence of not attributing to the essence that occurs in the “composita” and in the “multa” a relevant function in reference to the multiplicity situated at the transcendental level. In any case, in relation to this subject, it is worth noting the enormous influence of the Arab philosopher on the Christian philosopher. In fact, Thomas Aquinas establishes an order among the transcendentals on assumptions that go back to Avicenna’s speculation.

Instituciones: Universidad Católica San Pablo