Aristotle, of course, acknowledges no such presence. Aquinas's philosophy is largely based on the acknowledgement of this presence as much as, if not more so than, it is on any singular conception of Aristotle's. Aquinas believed that just as much as one should follow his or her function by thinking and living a life that resulted in happiness by utilizing this thought process, one should also seek to ultimately act based upon the divine nature within one due to the presence of God. It is for this reason that Aquinas chooses to emphasize a healthy, positive union with God -- one that coincides with the rational, thought-provoking side of mankind.
It is due to this relationship with the divinity that Aquinas believes that the actual betterment of man's progress in his various pursuits -- pursuits which bring him happiness -- lies in his cultivation and furthering of...
That is the true purpose of moral education and of the fulfillment of activities that make people happy -- to bring them closer to God. In an almost cyclical fashion, then, the philosopher also notes that the seeking of a close, personal relationship with God will also inevitably bring happiness, as well as influence the degree of proficiency with which human beings can engage in whatever practices they choose to engage in. In this way, and in others, Aquinas actually synthesizes various aspects of Aristotle's philosophy to suit one with a more ecclesiastical slant. Still, it was fairly enlightening to understand that Aquinas based all of his philosophy upon the necessary occurrence of action -- specifically of actions designed to increase human happiness, fulfill mankind's purpose for existence, and to bring him closer to a union with God.
