Aquinas, Teleology, and the Modern Evolutionary Synthesis
Aquinas, Teleology, and the Modern Evolutionary Synthesis

Summary/Abstract: Thomistic teleology maintains that a substance must possess a palatable function in order to subsist. However, many naturalistic adherents posit that the concept of function is no longer apropos to speak of in science. Functions, they contend, must be applied by an intentional agent, and the derivation of species by natural selection is not the result of an intentional agent. Thomistic teleology is dependent on an intentional agent, but his division of the disciplines allows for adherence to the modern synthetic theory of evolution. Aquinas accepts the presence of chance within his system, and considers it consistent with God’s design, maintaining that God intends it, and that it provides the opportunity for variation. Aquinas sees chance as an accidental cause, not a proper cause. Adherents to Thomistic philosophy can accept evolution, and even use Thomistic hylomorphism to explain the evolution of species. Thomistic philosophy is strong enough to withstand the tension between modern science and theology, and provides philosophical accounts for scientific concepts.

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