BEING AND WORKING IN THE ANGEL ACCORDING TO SAINT TOMAS OF AQUINAS

Abstract

This paper demonstrates the necessity of a multiplicity of principles of being and of operation in every creature. Such multiplicity grows in the same measure as the ontological distance from God. For such demonstration, the paper uses the consideration of the angelic nature as an appropriate ground for mental experiments. It considers, moreover, the discussion among Thomists on whether the being of accidents and operations is identical or not to the being of the substance. It shows also what the final end of operating is in creatures endowed with knowledge. And, finally, it notes the openness into infinity which the intellect and the will entail.