Butler Interprets Aquinas

Abstract This essay examines whether the C atholic magisterium's use of A quinas to condemn homosexual acts is actually Thomistic. Rather than being aligned with the magisterium, A quinas advances a moral epistemology better illuminated by the work of philosopher J udith B utler. Deploying B utler as a means of immanent critique, I show how magisterial attempts to argue against lesbian and gay sex fail on their own terms. Reading A quinas alongside B utler shows us why we need not choose between fidelity to Thomistic natural law and affirmation of lesbians and gays.