Natural Law

Definition

Natural law is a philosophical concept that posits the existence of a universal moral order, rooted in nature and accessible through human reason. It serves as a standard for evaluating human laws and actions, emphasizing that true justice aligns with this inherent moral framework, which can be seen in various political philosophies throughout history.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Natural law has its roots in ancient Greek philosophy, where thinkers like Aristotle argued for a universal order that dictates moral behavior.
2. In Stoic philosophy, natural law is linked to the idea of a rational universe, with humans capable of understanding and aligning with this moral order.
3. Cicero further developed the concept, arguing that true law is right reason in agreement with nature, which should govern both personal conduct and political systems.
4. The influence of natural law persisted into medieval and Renaissance thought, shaping ideas about governance, morality, and individual rights.
5. Natural law theories became foundational for modern legal and political thought, impacting Enlightenment thinkers who emphasized human rights and social contracts.

Review Questions

• How did Pre-Socratic thinkers contribute to the development of the concept of natural law?
  • Pre-Socratic philosophers laid the groundwork for natural law by exploring fundamental questions about existence, morality, and the nature of the universe. They sought to understand the cosmos and human place within it, suggesting that there are rational principles governing both nature and society. These early inquiries influenced later philosophers who would articulate the idea that moral laws can be discerned from nature itself, forming the basis for more formalized theories of natural law.
• What role does natural law play in Stoic political philosophy and its emphasis on cosmopolitanism?
  • In Stoic political philosophy, natural law serves as the foundation for understanding universal moral principles that apply to all humans regardless of their particular circumstances. This perspective fosters a sense of cosmopolitanism, where individuals recognize their shared humanity and moral obligations to one another. The Stoics believed that by following natural law, individuals could contribute to a just society, transcending local customs and laws that might conflict with universal moral truths.
• Analyze how Cicero's interpretation of natural law shaped his views on justice and the ideal statesman within Roman political philosophy.
  • Cicero's interpretation of natural law was crucial in shaping his views on justice and the ideal statesman. He argued that true justice is rooted in the principles of natural law, which should guide legal systems and political leadership. An ideal statesman, in Cicero's eyes, embodies these principles by acting in accordance with reason and virtue while striving for the common good. This synthesis of Greek thought with Roman practice allowed Cicero to advocate for a government that upholds natural law as essential for achieving a just society.

Related terms

Positive Law: Man-made laws that are enacted by a governing body, which may or may not align with natural law.

Cosmopolitanism: The idea that all human beings belong to a single community based on shared morality and ethics, often tied to natural law principles.

Justice:

The moral principle of fairness that seeks to ensure that individuals receive their due rights and treatment, often guided by natural law.