Justice is a certain rectitude of mind whereby a man does what he ought to do in the circumstance confronting him

Justice is a certain rectitude of mind whereby a man does what he ought to do in the circumstance confronting him

Thomas Aquinas, a prominent theologian and philosopher of the medieval period, believed that justice is a fundamental virtue that guides individuals to act in accordance with what is morally right and fair. In his writings, Aquinas defined justice as "a certain rectitude of mind whereby a man does what he ought to do in the circumstance confronting him." This definition highlights the importance of moral reasoning and ethical decision-making in determining the just course of action in any given situation.

According to Aquinas, justice is not simply a matter of following rules or laws, but rather a deeper understanding of what is morally right and fair in a particular context. It requires individuals to consider the needs and interests of others, as well as the broader implications of their actions on society as a whole. In this sense, justice is not just about individual rights and responsibilities, but also about promoting the common good and upholding the principles of fairness and equality.

Aquinas believed that justice is essential for maintaining social order and harmony, as it ensures that individuals are held accountable for their actions and that they are treated with dignity and respect. He argued that justice is necessary for the proper functioning of society, as it establishes a framework for resolving conflicts and disputes in a fair and impartial manner. Without justice, Aquinas believed that society would descend into chaos and lawlessness, as individuals would be free to act according to their own selfish desires without regard for the well-being of others.