Maritain as an interpreter of Aquinas on te problem of idividuation

Abstract

Abstract: The medieval problem of individuation is not the contemporary problem of «individuals » or «particulars»" discussed by P F. Strawson, J. W Meiland and othersl. In a certain sense the problem of individuation originates with Parmenides, but it is Plato's philosophy of science which bequeaths the problem to Aristotle and to his medieval commentators. Its solution in Aquinas is not that of Aristotle, nor is it that of Scotus or Suárez. Aquinas will distinguish between the problem of individuation and what we may call the problem of «individuality» or the problem of «subsistence ». The solution to both will draw upon many Aristotelian distinctions but will incorporate key elements of St. Thomas' own metaphysics, including the real distinction between essence and existence and his doctrine of participation. It is Maritain's appropriation of St. Thomas' metaphysics which enables him to produce a realistic philosophy of science, one which he offers as compatible with contemporary scientific enquiry. It also enables him to develop a theory of person and personality. But the story begins with Plato.