The Problem of Social Justice in the Socio-Political Views of Thomas Aquinas

The exploration of social justice within philosophical discourse has long been a subject of interest. Thе article delves into the question of social justice within the socio-political perspectives of one of the prominent philosophers of the Middle Ages, Thomas Aquinas. According to the author, Aquinas stands as one of the foremost ideologists of the Catholic Church, exploring issues of justice with the aim of theoretically substantiating certain tenets of divine revelation. At all times, Western European philosophers, when examining issues of justice, have primarily been concerned with its political and legal aspects, interpreting justice primarily as a socio-political category. In this regard, Aquinas is no exception. Of particular interest in his views is the concept of the order of justice necessary for the harmony of history. Additionally, Aquinas’ merits also include his stance on the hierarchy of law and, in the context of modern society in recent decades, his emphasis on the importance of adhering to legal norms. Through his studies in social and political philosophy, he succeeded in enriching the understanding of the problem of justice. Overall, Aquinas adapts his teachings to the ideological needs of the Catholic Church.