He who is dying of hunger must be fed rather than taught

He who is dying of hunger must be fed rather than taught

Thomas Aquinas, a prominent theologian and philosopher of the medieval period, is often associated with the idea that practical needs must take precedence over intellectual pursuits. This is exemplified in his famous quote, "He who is dying of hunger must be fed rather than taught." This statement reflects Aquinas' belief in the importance of addressing the immediate physical needs of individuals before focusing on their intellectual or spiritual development.

Aquinas was a proponent of the idea that human beings are composed of both body and soul, and that both aspects must be nurtured in order to achieve true fulfillment. In his view, it is impossible for someone who is suffering from hunger or other physical ailments to fully engage in intellectual or spiritual pursuits. Therefore, it is essential to prioritize meeting their basic needs before attempting to educate or enlighten them.

This principle is rooted in Aquinas' understanding of the hierarchy of human needs. Just as Maslow's hierarchy of needs posits that individuals must first satisfy their physiological needs before moving on to higher levels of self-actualization, Aquinas believed that addressing physical needs is a necessary precursor to intellectual and spiritual growth. By ensuring that individuals have access to food, shelter, and other basic necessities, we create the conditions for them to flourish in other areas of their lives.

Furthermore, Aquinas' emphasis on the importance of practical action over theoretical knowledge is reflected in his broader philosophical framework. He believed that knowledge is only valuable insofar as it leads to virtuous action and the improvement of society. Therefore, it is not enough to simply teach individuals about moral principles or spiritual truths; we must also actively work to alleviate their suffering and improve their material conditions.