Inherent morality

Definition

Inherent morality refers to the idea that certain moral principles are universal and exist independently of human beliefs or societal norms. This concept suggests that there are objective standards of right and wrong that are intrinsic to human nature, influencing laws and ethical standards. Inherent morality serves as a foundation for natural law theories, which argue that laws should reflect these universal moral truths.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Inherent morality is often linked to the belief that all humans have an intrinsic sense of right and wrong, which guides their actions and decisions.
2. Philosophers like Aristotle and Aquinas have significantly contributed to the development of natural law theories that incorporate the idea of inherent morality.
3. Inherent morality serves as a counterpoint to moral relativism, which argues that morals are shaped by cultural contexts rather than being universal.
4. This concept plays a critical role in discussions about human rights, as it supports the idea that all individuals possess certain inalienable rights simply by being human.
5. Debates about legal systems often reference inherent morality to argue for laws that align with universal ethical principles rather than those dictated solely by societal consensus.

Review Questions

• How does inherent morality challenge the perspective of moral relativism?
  • Inherent morality challenges moral relativism by asserting that certain moral truths exist independently of cultural or societal beliefs. While moral relativism suggests that what is considered right or wrong can change based on context, inherent morality posits that there are universal principles that apply to all humans regardless of their backgrounds. This distinction emphasizes the notion that some actions are fundamentally right or wrong, creating a framework for evaluating laws and ethics beyond mere social consensus.
• Discuss the relationship between inherent morality and natural law theory in ethical philosophy.
  • Inherent morality is foundational to natural law theory, which argues that human laws should reflect universal moral truths inherent in human nature. Natural law theorists contend that by understanding these intrinsic moral principles through reason, societies can develop just legal systems that uphold fairness and justice. The relationship between these concepts highlights how philosophical inquiries into morality can influence legal frameworks and guide legislative practices towards ethical governance.
• Evaluate the implications of inherent morality on contemporary discussions about human rights and justice.
  • The concept of inherent morality has profound implications for contemporary discussions surrounding human rights and justice by supporting the argument that all individuals possess certain fundamental rights simply by being human. This perspective reinforces international legal frameworks aimed at protecting these rights and advocating for justice globally. Furthermore, inherent morality provides a basis for critiquing laws or practices that violate these universal ethical standards, driving movements toward social change and greater equity in societies worldwide.

Related terms

Natural Law: A philosophical belief that certain rights or values are inherent in human nature and can be understood through reason, forming the basis for moral and legal principles.

Moral Relativism: The view that moral judgments are not absolute but vary depending on cultural, societal, or individual circumstances.

Ethical Absolutism: The belief that there are absolute standards against which moral questions can be judged, and that certain actions are inherently right or wrong, regardless of context.