Ralph McInerny. Aquinas. Cambridge: Polity Press, 2004.
Synopsis:
In Aquinas, renowned scholar Ralph McInerny offers a comprehensive and accessible exploration of the life, thought, and enduring influence of Thomas Aquinas, one of the most significant figures in Western philosophy and theology. McInerny situates Aquinas in the historical and intellectual context of the 13th century, highlighting his groundbreaking synthesis of Christian theology and Aristotelian philosophy. The book provides a clear introduction to Aquinas’s major works, including the Summa Theologiae and Summa contra Gentiles, while unpacking his contributions to metaphysics, ethics, and epistemology. By blending historical insight with philosophical analysis, McInerny not only illuminates Aquinas’s profound ideas but also demonstrates their relevance to contemporary philosophical and theological debates. Ideal for both students and general readers, Aquinas serves as a compelling guide to understanding the legacy of this monumental thinker.