Natural Law and Thomas Aquinas

Flashcards covering key concepts and vocabulary from the lecture notes on natural law and Thomas Aquinas.

Natural Law

A moral theory recognizing human inclinations as the basis for determining ethical behavior.

Thomas Aquinas

A medieval theologian and philosopher known for his contributions to natural law theory, blending Christian doctrine with Aristotelian philosophy.

Eternal Law

The divine wisdom governing the universe, guiding creatures towards their ultimate ends.

Human Law

The laws created and enforced by human beings in communities, which should align with natural law.

Divine Law

Precepts revealed by God through scripture, guiding human actions towards supernatural happiness.

Common Good

The good that benefits all members of a community, requiring that individual actions consider the welfare of others.

The Three Inclinations of Human Nature

According to Aquinas, these include the preservation of life, the pursuit of the sexual act, and the desire for knowledge and community.

Conscience

A sense of right and wrong that must be informed and guided by reason and ethical principles.

Virtue

A disposition to act in ways that contribute to human flourishing and the common good.

Neoplatonism

A philosophical system developed from Plato's ideas, focusing on a transcendent good influencing moral understanding.

Aristotelian Causes

The four causes (material, formal, efficient, final) used by Aristotle to explain the existence and purpose of beings.

Moral Virtue

A habit or disposition leading individuals to make good moral choices.

Principle of Non-Contradiction

The philosophical principle stating that contradictory statements cannot both be true in the same sense.

Intuition vs. Reason in Ethics

For Aquinas, moral decisions must not rely solely on personal intuitions but should be informed by rational deliberation and objective standards.

Aquinas's Magnum Opus

Summa Theologiae, a comprehensive compendium of theological and philosophical teachings.

Divine Providence

The governance of God’s will guiding creatures towards their proper end.

Synthesis of Greek Philosophy and Christian Theology

Aquinas's approach to integrate Aristotelian rational thought with Christian beliefs in understanding ethics and morality.