Natural Law Theory

Definition

Natural law theory is a philosophical concept that posits that certain rights and moral values are inherent in human nature and can be discovered through reason. This theory suggests that there are universal moral principles that govern human behavior, which are accessible to all individuals, regardless of culture or law. The idea has roots in ancient Greek philosophy and significantly influenced early Christian thought, particularly in the understanding of morality and justice.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Natural law theory was heavily influenced by the works of ancient Greek philosophers like Aristotle, who emphasized rationality and purpose in human life.
2. Early Christian thinkers, such as St. Augustine and St. Thomas Aquinas, integrated natural law theory into their theology, arguing that it complements divine revelation.
3. Natural law serves as a foundation for many modern legal systems, suggesting that laws should reflect universal moral standards derived from human nature.
4. This theory is often contrasted with legal positivism, which asserts that laws are valid solely based on their enactment by governing bodies, irrespective of morality.
5. Natural law theory plays a critical role in discussions of human rights, asserting that certain rights are inalienable because they stem from the natural order.

Review Questions

• How did Greek philosophy influence the development of natural law theory?
  • Greek philosophy laid the groundwork for natural law theory through thinkers like Aristotle, who introduced concepts such as rationality and purpose. His belief that humans could discern moral truths through reason set the stage for later theorists to argue that these moral truths are inherent in nature. This foundational understanding allowed early Christian philosophers to adopt and adapt these ideas, leading to a more formalized version of natural law that combined reason with divine insight.
• In what ways did early Christian thought modify natural law theory compared to its Greek origins?
  • Early Christian thought modified natural law theory by incorporating the belief in divine revelation alongside reason. While Greek philosophy emphasized human rationality as the primary means of understanding morality, Christian thinkers like St. Augustine posited that divine commands also inform our understanding of natural law. This combination created a dual approach where both human reason and God's will are seen as essential to grasping moral truths.
• Evaluate the implications of natural law theory for contemporary discussions on human rights.
  • Natural law theory has significant implications for contemporary human rights discussions, as it posits that certain rights are intrinsic to human nature and thus universally applicable. This view supports the argument that all individuals possess fundamental rights simply by being human, which transcends cultural or governmental differences. As a result, natural law provides a moral framework that can challenge unjust laws and practices, reinforcing the idea that governments should uphold these universal standards rather than impose arbitrary rules.

Related terms

Aristotelian Ethics: A framework established by Aristotle focusing on virtue and the idea that moral excellence is a state that must be developed through practice and habit.

Divine Command Theory: An ethical theory asserting that what is morally right or wrong is determined by God's commands, contrasting with natural law's reliance on human reason.

Teleology: The philosophical study of purpose or design in natural occurrences, significant in understanding the goals inherent within natural law.