St. Thomas Aquinas: Italy (1224-1274)

St. Thomas Aquinas is known for producing history's most complete system of Christian philosophy. In the late thirteenth century, this quiet, reflective Dominican scholar combined the work of Aristotle with Christian, Jewish, Muslim, and pagan thought to reconcile reason and faith. He believed we can know that God exists but not what God is like. Aquinas concluded that mortal happiness is uncertain but immortal happiness is the ultimate end of life; beatitude is to pass beyond death to see the face of God. His thought continues to exert a powerful influence on Catholic philosophy today.

The Giants of Philosophy series is a collection of dramatic presentations, in understandable language, of the concerns, questions, interests, and overall outlook of the world's great philosophers and philosophical traditions. Special emphasis on clear and relevant explanations give you a new arsenal of insights toward living a better life.

Kenneth L. Schmitz is a fellow of Trinity College and professor emeritus of philosophy at the University of Toronto. Professor Schmitz has taught at Loyola University of Los Angeles, Marquette University, Indiana University, and The Catholic University of America. Past president of the American Catholic Philosophical Association, the Metaphysical Society of America, and the Hegel Society of America, he was elected a member of the European Academy of Sciences and Arts in 1991.

Charlton Heston (1923-2008) was among America's most respected actors. Best known for his roles in historical films, Mr. Heston sensitively and clearly explains history's greatest philosophical insights.

John Lachs is Centennial Professor of Philosophy at Vanderbilt University. A recipient of the Herbert Schneider Award for Lifetime Contributions to American Philosophy, he is the author of Intermediate Man, In Love with Life, Mind and Philosophers, and A Community of Individuals, among others.