"The highest manifestation of life consists in this: that a being governs its own actions. A thing which is always subject to the direction of another is somewhat of a dead thing"

Thomas Aquinas is suggesting that the highest form of life is when a being has the ability to govern its own actions. He is suggesting that when a being is always subject to the direction of another, it is not truly alive. This suggests that autonomy is essential for life to be significant and satisfying. Aquinas is highlighting the significance of free choice and the capability to make choices for oneself. He is suggesting that when a being is not able to make decisions for itself, it is not really alive. This quote is a pointer that autonomy is necessary for life to be significant and satisfying. It is a pointer that we ought to strive to be independent and make choices for ourselves. It is also a tip that we ought to appreciate the autonomy of others and not attempt to control them.