トマスにおける認識の構造について

Abstract

In this paper, the author tries to clarify Thomas's view on the structure of cognition by interpreting some of his works. The consideration proceeds along the following lines. 1. Thomas says cognition is the effect of truth, therefore cognition is produced where truth is produced. Now proper truth is adaequatio rei et intellectus, and it, in turn, is produced in the judgment of a intellect. Consequently, cognition is produced in the judgment. 2. A cognition of an individual thing is produced by the limitation by a intellect. And the intellect makes the limitation on the ground of the essence of the thing. However the intellect accepts the essence without individual matter, which is the principle of individualization. Consequently, the intellect cannot recognize the thing as it is individual, but can recognize it only in its general aspects. 3. A cognition of an individual thing is not clear at first stage. In order to clarify the cognition, the intellect must analyze the quidditas of the recognized thing.