1.9 Natural Law and Catholic Attitudes Towards Science

What is natural law?

Natural law refers to moral principles inherent to all humans, guiding them to know right from wrong

Why do Catholics believe humans understand natural law?

Humans are made in the image of God and share His qualities, including goodness, so they have an in-built moral code.

What is the most basic principle of natural law?

To do good and avoid evil.

How is natural law related to the sanctity of life?

Natural law includes protecting and preserving life, as all life is holy and sacred.

What was the Second Vatican Council?

A series of meetings between 1962 and 1965 where the Church confirmed that science and religion support each other.

What does the Catholic Church teach about the relationship between religion and science?

Religion and science do not have to contradict each other, and they support each other in understanding God’s creation.

Why might religion and science offer different answers?

Religion explains why things happen, while science explains how things happen.

Who was Georges Lemaître, and why is he important?

A Catholic priest who proposed the Big Bang theory, showing that faith and science can coexist.

How does the Church view the Genesis creation stories and science?

The Church sees Genesis as mythical, so it doesn’t conflict with scientific explanations like evolution.

Quote to show Catholic views on science and faith working together

"If methodical investigation... is carried out in a genuinely scientific manner, it never truly conflicts with faith." – Gaudium et Spes 36.