Panel | Growing in Virtue: Aquinas on Habit
Jennifer Herdt
89.49
28 November 2023
18 October 2025
Join our distinguished panel for a discussion of "Growing in Virtue: Aquinas on Habit" by William C. Mattison III. Growing in Virtue is the only comprehensive account of growth in virtue in the thought of Thomas Aquinas.
Our conversation explores the intellectual rigor and accessibility of these topics, making them relevant to individuals of any or no religious affiliation, yet deeply rooted in Catholic thought.
The focal point of our dialogue is the intriguing relationship between the graced virtue of the Christian life, often referred to as supernatural or infused virtue, and the more universally recognized virtues that people of any or no faith can possess, known as acquired virtues. With the aid of our distinguished panelists, we navigate through the intricate scholarly debates surrounding these concepts, aiming to contribute meaningful insights into virtue scholarship.
We address salient questions that resonate with everyone: At what point does one embody virtues such as generosity, chastity, patience, or sobriety enough to be rightfully described as virtuous? For those of faith, how do persistent sins affect our relationship with God’s grace? Furthermore, we examine how genetics, upbringing, personal choices, and divine grace interplay in shaping our moral character and virtue.
This conversation not only uncovers the foundational aspects of habit and virtue according to Thomas Aquinas but also sheds light on the practical implications of these ideas in everyday life. Whether you're steeped in philosophical inquiry or simply curious about the intersection of faith, virtue, and personal growth, this discussion offers valuable perspectives and insights.
Panelists:
- William C. Mattison III, Wilsey Family Associate Professor, University of Notre Dame
- Jennifer Herdt, Gilbert L. Stark Professor of Christian Ethics at Yale University's Divinity School.
- Jean Porter, John A. O'Brien Professor of Theology, University of Notre Dame
- Rev. Dominic Legge, O.P., Director of the Thomistic Institute and Associate Professor of Dogmatic Theology at the Pontifical Faculty of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, D.C.
Visit the CCCG: www.constudies.nd.edu
The views and opinions expressed are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the University of Notre Dame, the College of Arts and Letters, or the Center for Citizenship and Constitutional Government.
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