Citizens vs. Foreigners: A Saint's Perspective Thomas Aquinas on Immigration and the Common Good

... In his Summa Theologiae, St. Thomas Aquinas writes that “Man’s relations with foreigners are twofold, peaceful and hostile, and in directing both kinds of relation the Law contained suitable precepts.” Law, Prudence, and the Common Good In his Summa Theologiae, Aquinas’ theory on immigration reflects a Golden Mean between indiscriminate openness and rigid exclusion, thoroughly grounded on the principles of natural and human — or positive — law, the common good (bonum commune), and order of charity (ordo caritatis), fostering peace and the conditions for virtuous life. Because particular circumstances differ, those entrusted with authority must exercise prudence in...