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it follows that the number of effects of all heavenly revolutions is either finite or there is a
heavenly revolution that causes an actual infinity of effects. Since the second possibility is not
possible, the effects of all heavenly revolutions must be finite. So, Bonaventure’s argument
seems invalid.
Aquinas in Writings on the Sentences considers a slightly different argument built on the
principle that no finite power can perform an infinite operation. It is impossible, therefore, for the
heavens either to move or to exist for an infinite time. 88 In the reply to this objection, Aquinas
states that motion and existence are not operations of the heavens on account of their nature, but
both are acquired from the infinite separate agent, and hence can be infinite on account of the
infinite power. 89 Hence, the conclusion that a finite power performs an infinite operation does
not follow.
88
89
Baldner and Carroll, Aquinas on Creation, 94.
Ibid, 106.
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