Question 77 — Of the Cause of Sin, on the Part of the Sensitive Appetite

We must now consider the cause of sin, on the part of the sensitive appetite, as to whether a passion of the soul may be a cause of sin: and under this head there are eight points of inquiry:

(1) Whether a passion of the sensitive appetite can move or incline the will?

• (2) Whether it can overcome the reason against the latter’s knowledge?
• (3) Whether a sin resulting from a passion is a sin of weakness?
• (4) Whether the passion of self-love is the cause of every sin?
• (5) Of three causes mentioned in 1 Jn. 2:16: Concupiscence of the eyes, Concupiscence of the flesh, and Pride of life.
• (6) Whether the passion which causes a sin diminishes it?
• (7) Whether passion excuses from sin altogether?
• (8) Whether a sin committed through passion can be mortal?