2. Attempt a concise explanation of the sources of inspiration of the politicn! thoughts of Si Augustine and St Thomas Aquinas

St. Augustine's political thought drew inspiration primarily from **Neo-Platonism and Christianity**. He saw the earthly city as imperfect and corrupted by original sin, contrasting it with the divine City of God, the ultimate source of good. This dualistic view shaped his understanding of political authority as necessary to maintain order in the flawed earthly realm, but ultimately subordinate to God's will.St. Thomas Aquinas's political philosophy was heavily influenced by **Aristotelian philosophy and Catholic theology**. He adopted Aristotle's emphasis on the natural sociability of humans and the importance of the polis (state) for achieving human flourishing. Aquinas integrated this with Christian principles, arguing that natural law, derived from God's eternal law, provides a moral framework for just governance and the pursuit of the common good. He also emphasized the importance of reason and virtue in political life.