this issue
previous article in this issuenext article in this issue

Document Details :

Title: St. Thomas on the Direct/Indirect Distinction
Author(s): ROJAS, J.
Journal: Ephemerides Theologicae Lovanienses
Volume: 64    Issue: 4   Date: December 1988   
Pages: 371-392
DOI: 10.2143/ETL.64.4.556408

Abstract :
Since P. Knauer published his thought-provoking essay on the principle of double effect in 1965, the subject has increasingly drawn the critical attention of a number of moral theologians during the past two decades. Such interest on the subject is understandable insofar as with it, many other important issues in fundamental moral theology are being once more raised for consideration. Revived in the recent discussions, for instance, is the problem of the viability of the concept of intrinsic morality. Could one really speak of intrinsically good or evil actions, that is, actions considered in themselves apart from their effects and other relevant circumstances? Furthermore, another problem that has been rekindled revolves around the understanding of the classical dictum, 'Do no evil that good may come about'. Does this dictum hold in all circumstances of 'unqualified' evil?

Download article