Natural Law and Its Theories

This set of flashcards covers key concepts from the lecture on natural law, including theories by Thomas Aquinas and relevant philosophical contexts.

Natural Law

A moral theory suggesting that human actions should align with our nature, guided by reason.

Aquinas

Thomas Aquinas, a Dominican friar and prominent intellectual figure of the Middle Ages, known for his natural law theory.

Divine Command Theory

An ethical approach asserting that morality is dependent upon the commands of God.

Four Causes

Aristotle's framework to understand a being, including material, formal, efficient, and final causes.

Promulgation

The act of communicating laws to ensure compliance and understanding within a community.

Eternal Law

The divine will of God for creation, indicating how each participant should return to Him.

Human Law

Laws constructed and enforced by human beings within their communities aimed at directing toward the common good.

Natural Inclinations

Inherent desires such as the preservation of life, sexual reproduction, and reason, considered as paths to perfection.

Unnatural Crimes

Acts contrary to the natural functioning of sexual intercourse as defined by Aquinas.

Common Good

A standard in ethics that considers the well-being of the whole community or society.