Natural Law

Definition

Natural law is a philosophical theory that posits the existence of a universal moral order, accessible through human reason, which governs the behavior of individuals and societies. It emphasizes that certain rights and ethical principles are inherent in human nature and can be discerned through rational thought, independent of human-made laws. This idea plays a critical role in the works of influential thinkers, notably in the context of medieval philosophy and the synthesis of faith and reason.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Aquinas defined natural law as part of his moral philosophy, linking it to divine law and the purpose of human existence.
2. Natural law is often associated with the idea that certain rights, such as life and liberty, are self-evident and should be protected by legal systems.
3. Aquinas categorized natural law into primary precepts (fundamental principles) and secondary precepts (specific applications), guiding ethical behavior.
4. The concept has influenced various legal and political theories, including the development of human rights and social contract theories.
5. Critics argue about the ambiguity in interpreting natural law, questioning whether it can be universally applied across diverse cultures.

Review Questions

• How does Aquinas's understanding of natural law integrate with his views on divine law?
  • Aquinas sees natural law as a reflection of divine law, suggesting that natural law is how God's eternal law is made known to humans. He argues that humans can use reason to discern the moral order embedded in creation. By aligning natural law with divine will, Aquinas establishes a framework where moral truths are not arbitrary but rooted in a higher purpose, connecting ethics with theology.
• What are the implications of natural law theory on modern concepts of human rights?
  • Natural law theory lays a philosophical foundation for modern human rights by asserting that certain rights are inherent to all individuals due to their human nature. This perspective suggests that these rights exist independently of government recognition or societal conventions. Consequently, the application of natural law has influenced legal frameworks around the world to protect these fundamental rights against injustice and oppression.
• Evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of natural law as a moral framework in contemporary ethical debates.
  • Natural law offers a robust framework by emphasizing universal moral principles derived from human nature, which can provide consistency in ethical reasoning. However, its reliance on the notion of an inherent moral order can lead to challenges in diverse societies where cultural norms vary significantly. Critics argue that this could result in imposing one moral view over others, raising questions about inclusivity and adaptability in addressing complex contemporary issues such as bioethics and social justice.

Related terms

Moral Absolutism: The belief that there are objective moral principles that apply universally, regardless of individual beliefs or cultural norms.

Divine Law: The moral laws that are believed to be given by God, which often serve as a foundation for natural law in theological contexts.

Human Nature: The inherent characteristics, including moral tendencies and social behaviors, that define humans and influence their actions within society.