Natural Law Ethics

What are the basic goods identified in Natural Law according to Thomas Aquinas?

Life, Procreation, Education

What are the four types of law described by Thomas Aquinas?

1.Eternal Law 2. Natural Law 3. Human Law 4. Divine Law

What does the Doctrine of Double Effect (DDE) state?

An act can be permissible if it leads to both a good and a bad effect, provided that certain conditions are met.

What are the four conditions of the Doctrine of Double Effect?

1.Moral Principle Condition 2. Means-End Condition 3. Right Intention Condition 4. Proportionality Condition

What does the Proportionality Condition require in the Doctrine of Double Effect?

The good effect must be at least as great as the bad effect.

What is the definition of Independent Effects in the context of Natural Law?

Effects that occur when neither of the effects depends upon or causes the other.

How does Natural Law theory view the concept of 'Natural Good'?

Natural Law theory questions the foundation of what is considered natural good.

What problem does evolution pose for Natural Law Theory?

Evolution undermines the notion of natural ends.

What is the significance of the term 'innocent person' in Natural Law theory?

An innocent person has a moral right not to be threatened by others.

What is Natural Law's standard for moral principles?

Natural law identifies certain values to base moral principles upon.

Natural Law identifies certain values to base moral principles upon.

True

According to Natural Law, moral principles can vary completely without any standard.

False

Natural Law theory views 'Natural Good' as a stable concept.

False

The Doctrine of Double Effect allows for bad effects in all circumstances.

False

Natural Law asserts that an innocent person is entitled to moral protection from harm.

True

Natural Law considers evolution as supportive of its premises.

False

The Proportionality Condition is one of the requirements in the Doctrine of Double Effect.

True

Human Law is not recognized by Thomas Aquinas as a type of law.

False

Natural Law can influence policies in human law.

True

Natural Law relies on subjective interpretations for moral principles.

False

How can you apply Natural Law to a current ethical dilemma in society?

Consider how the values identified by Natural Law can guide decisions in areas such as bioethics or justice.

What are some contemporary issues that might challenge the foundation of Natural Law?

Issues such as genetic engineering, euthanasia, or climate change can challenge traditional Natural Law values.

In what ways can Natural Law influence legislative policies?

Natural Law can provide a moral framework for laws regarding human rights, environmental protection, and social justice.

How might the concept of 'natural good' affect personal moral decisions?

Individuals might reflect on what is considered 'natural good' when making decisions about health, family, and community responsibilities.

What role does the Doctrine of Double Effect play in assessing moral actions?

The Doctrine of Double Effect can be used to evaluate actions that have both positive and negative consequences in decision-making.