Economic Ethics in Thomas Aquinas' Thought

Today, in view of the philosophers of virtue ethics, the globalized economy cannot be surrounded only by legal limits. Nor can economic crises be prevented simply by appealing to various laws and based on personal interests, but what we need is a set of moral virtues. Which virtues should govern today’s globalized economy? In response to this question, we can refer to Thomas Aquinas' moral theory, which is based on the link between virtue and justice. Aquinas is one of the famous thinkers in the Christian theology, whose view can answer many of the issues raised in economic ethics. In this article, an attempt is made to first look at how Aquinas' theory of virtue, with its emphasis on the natural light of reason, can be effective for all humans, religions, and non-believers. It is then strived to explain how Aquinas' theory of natural right unites virtue and justice. Finally, the challenge between cultural diversity and ethical unity in today’s globalized economy is addressed.

Keywords:

Thomas Aquinas , Natural Right , Justice , Ethics , Virtue