Intellegible substances and their operation according to Thomas Aquinas' Commentary on the Book of causes

Abstract

In this article, I will examine four issues related to Thomas Aquinas' Commentary on the Book of Causes. The first, refers to the combination of two metaphysical perspectives: a) the Neoplatonic philosophical tradition and b) the monotheistic and creationist religions developed in the Islamic and Christian world. The second, is connected to the way in which Aquinas collects and amalgamates central themes of proclean metaphysics in his commentary. In this sense, thirdly, I will analyze Thomas' use of the essence and the operation in intelligible substances theory. Finally, I will try to conclude, showing the scope of his argumentation in relation with the self-subsistent character of the soul.