Ep. #56 – Classical Theism & Analogy w/ Dr. Delfino
Summary
Dr. Robert A. Delfino joins us to discuss the doctrine of analogy, which is very important for classical theists. Through the course of the episode, he walks through exemplar causality, logical vs. philosophical predication, and the different types of analogy. Toward the end, I ask Dr. Delfino how his analysis might apply to three passages of Scripture.
Guest Bio
Robert A. Delfino received his Ph.D. from the State University of New York at Buffalo, where he specialized in metaphysics and medieval philosophy. His current research interests include metaphysics, ethics, and the relationship between science, philosophy, and religion. He has presented papers at the Comillas Pontifical University in Madrid, Spain, the John Paul II Catholic University of Lublin, in Poland, and the University of Oxford, in the United Kingdom. He is the co-author of a recent book Does God Exist: A Socratic Dialogue on the Five Ways of Thomas Aquinas.
Show Outline
In the first segment, Dr. Delfino walks us through an outline of his course on St. Thomas Aquinas. Next, he explains why the doctrine of analogy is important for classical theists. The teaching preserves God’s transcendence and still allows us to speak truthfully about God.
In the next segment, Dr. Delfino explains how analogy rests on exemplar causality. He walks through the terms “univocal,” “equivocal,” and “analogical.” Throughout the discussion, Dr. Delfino provides many important examples.
In the final segment, we examine three passages of Scripture. How are the Biblical writers talking about God? We consider different possibilities. Lastly, Dr. Delfino gives us a sneak peek into his current work.
Important Quote
“In contrast to the … analogy of [proportionality], the analogy of intrinsic attribution is dynamic in that it is based explicitly on causality and dependency. To extend the example of existence of substance and accidents to that of subsistent being, esse belongs properly to ipsum esse subsistens alone, but it is predicated of other beings because they receive their esse in dependence on subsistent being itself. Such analogy is called intrinsic attribution because each being really does have esse intrinsically, even though it is from another … Despite this “inner” or intrinsic aspect, however, whenever analogy of attribution is used it also emphasizes the “otherness” of the characteristic participated … all beings are such by participation in the esse of subsistent being. In this way the analogy of proper proportionality can be seen to be related to, and to presuppose, the analogy of intrinsic attribution in the order of being. The use of both allows subsistent being to be transcendent or “other,” when compared to other beings, and at the same time it allows esse to be participated and thus to be immanent or “within” other beings”
William Wallace, The Elements of Philosophy: A Compendium for Philosophers and
Theologians (New York: Alba House, 1977), 126.
Resources Mentioned
Does God Exist: A Socratic Dialogue on the Five Ways of Thomas Aquinas by Matt Fradd and Dr. Robert A. Delfino
What is Classical Theism & Why Hold To It? by John DeRosa
Related Episodes
Ep. #14 –Does the Fifth Way Still Work? with Dr. Delfino
Ep. #27– Defending the 3rd Way with Dr. Delfino
Ep. #37 – Classical Theism & Simplicity with Dr. Stump
