Chapter 6 - Natural Law (Blackboard)

These flashcards cover key concepts and terms related to Natural Law Theory, including definitions, philosophical arguments, and examples.

Natural Law Theory

A category of normative theories that posits actions are right insofar as they are natural and wrong insofar as they are unnatural.

Objective Morality

The belief that there are moral standards that are universally applicable to all individuals, independent of personal beliefs.

Hume's Argument on Moral Knowledge

A philosophical argument suggesting that moral claims cannot be known because they are neither conceptual truths (like mathematical truths) nor empirical truths (observable facts).

Conceptual Truths

Knowledge that can be known without observation, based on the meanings and relationships of concepts (e.g., "triangles have three sides").

Empirical Truths

Knowledge that requires observation of the world to determine, such as counting objects or witnessing events.

Fitness Model of Natural Law Theory

The view that actions are right if they promote the survival of a being or species and wrong if they hinder this survival.

Example of Natural Action

An action that allows a bodily function to perform its purpose effectively; for instance, wearing glasses to help sight.

Example of Unnatural Action

An action that hinders a bodily function's purpose; for instance, causing injury to the eye.

Catholic Church's Stance on Capital Punishment

Opposition to the death penalty, citing that it interferes with the fundamental human purpose of survival.

Sexual Ethics in Natural Law Theory

The belief that sexual actions should lead to reproduction; thus, contraceptive actions are considered wrong.