Brief History of the Soul, ch. 2

In this chapter, Goetz and Taliaferro turn to Augustine and Aquinas. I was excited to read this chapter as I hoped it would bring clarity to Plato and Aristotle. Instead, I am feeling more confused about the nature of the soul, in particular as it relates to the body. Augustine seems to want to say that the soul is necessarily distinct from and exists apart from the body; making the body unnecessary for human being. Aquinas on the other hand seems to toe the line between distinction and necessary relation. Yet, the final pages indicate that Aquinas denies a causal relationship to the body. I think I tend to side with Augustine in relation to the soul, but I see the problems in adopting his position. I am hoping this book will provide further clarity as we continue on. As of now, I am confused and frustrated.