group 6: Natural Law Flashcards

Flashcards based on St. Thomas Aquinas's theory of Natural Law.

Natural Law (St. Thomas Aquinas)

Moral principles inherent in human nature and discoverable through reason.

Law (Aquinas Definition)

An ordinance of reason for the common good, made by one who has care of the community, and promulgated.

Reason (in Law)

Law should be based on rational thought, not arbitrary decisions.

Common Good

Laws should benefit society as a whole, not just individuals.

Legitimate Authority

Only those responsible for the community can create laws.

Promulgation

Laws must be publicly known, so people can follow them.

Eternal Law

The divine wisdom of God that governs the universe.

Natural Law

Human participation in eternal law, accessible through reason.

Human Law

Laws created by societies based on natural law principles.

Divine Law

Laws revealed in scripture, guiding humans beyond natural reason toward salvation.

First Moral Principle

"Good is to be done and pursued, and evil is to be avoided."

Self-Preservation

The natural human inclination to protect and sustain their own lives.

Reproduction and Education of Offspring

The natural inclination to procreate and nurture children.

Living in Society

Humans are social beings who seek order and cooperation.

Seeking Truth and God

The pursuit of knowledge and a relationship with the divine.

Universality (of Natural Law)

Natural law applies to all humans, regardless of culture or time period.

Immutability (of Natural Law)

Natural law does not change because it is rooted in human nature.

Knowability (of Natural Law)

Humans can understand natural law through reason without divine revelation.

Just Law

Human laws must be based on natural law to be considered just.

Unjust Law

A law that contradicts natural law; considered a "perversion of law."

who is st. thomas Aquinas

a 13th century catholic theologian and philosopher

what is natural law

fundamental concept in moral philosophy

4 key elements of law

LS MM

4 types of law

EN HD

3 characteristics of natural law

U I K

4 principles of natural law

SR LS

immutable

it does not change

reproduction amd education if offspring

nurture children

divine law

scripture