Law, Conscience, and Moral Judgment in St. Thomas Aquinas's Thought

Law, Conscience, and Moral Judgment in St. Thomas Aquinas's Thought offers a profound and comprehensive exploration of one of the most influential thinkers in Western moral philosophy. This richly detailed volume unpacks Aquinas's groundbreaking synthesis of divine law, natural law, human freedom, and conscience—revealing how his timeless insights continue to illuminate contemporary debates about ethics, legal authority, and personal responsibility. Tracing the intricate hierarchy of laws—from the eternal law of God to the particular statutes that govern human society—this book demonstrates how Aquinas's vision integrates reason and faith to establish a universal moral order. At its heart lies conscience: not a vague feeling but a rational, binding judgment that guides moral action amidst the complexities of life. With rigorous historical context, philosophical analysis, and theological commentary, the book addresses key questions: How does conscience function in moral decision-making? What is the relationship between law and freedom? When must individuals obey or resist human laws? How does grace perfect human reason and transform conscience? Each chapter offers deep dives into these questions, combining scholarly rigor with accessible language. Ideal for academics, clergy, students of philosophy and theology, and thoughtful readers seeking to understand the foundations of moral judgment, this book bridges medieval scholasticism and modern ethical challenges. It reveals how Aquinas's thought remains a vital resource for navigating issues of justice, conscience, and freedom in our pluralistic world. Engaging, authoritative, and richly annotated, Law, Conscience, and Moral Judgment in St. Thomas Aquinas's Thought is an indispensable guide to the enduring legacy of a master thinker whose work shapes both the history of ideas and the moral dilemmas we face today.