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What are the key characteristics of Thomism that contribute to its excellence as a philosophical and theological system, and how do these characteristics manifest in the works of St. Thomas Aquinas and his followers?

Thomism's excellence lies in its realism, intellectualism, and theocentrism. It is realistic, prioritizing being over knowledge, and acknowledging the intellect's superiority over the will. This intellectualism is evident in its rigorous conceptual analysis and logical structure. Theocentrism emphasizes God as the ultimate end and source of all reality, as seen in St. Thomas' emphasis on divine revelation and the role of grace.

In St. Thomas Aquinas' works, these characteristics are manifest through his systematic approach, which integrates faith and reason. His Summa Theologiæ, for instance, demonstrates his ability to synthesize philosophy and theology, using Aristotelian principles to defend Christian doctrine. His followers, like the Dominicans, have continued to develop and apply these principles, contributing to the enduring relevance of Thomism in various fields, including philosophy, theology, and social thought.