Natural Law Theory Notes
Chapter Overview
1. Natural Law Theory
Natural law theory posits that moral rules and principles are objective, absolute, and universal truths discernible through reasoned reflection. It emphasizes understanding morality through human nature rather than metaphysical concepts. This theory has significant implications, particularly concerning sexual morality.
Key Concepts:
Natural Law vs Modern Science: Natural law in morality should not be confused with scientific laws, which are descriptive and immutable. Natural laws in ethics are prescriptive and tied to human morality.
Natural Law Paradigm:
Morality arises from human nature—knowledge and free will are central to understanding moral truths.
2. The Aristotelian Conception of Natural Law
Aristotle asserts that everything in nature has a purpose or telos. Understanding this purpose is essential to grasp moral behavior. He uses the example of the acorn, which naturally grows into an oak tree, to illustrate how nature defines the essence and development of things.
Core Ideas From Aristotle:
Every entity has an intrinsic nature and purpose.
Humanity's unique rational capacity distinguishes it from other living beings, and morality is thus tied to the exercise of reason.
3. The Moral Law
Law is defined broadly as a rule governing actions in nature. Specifically, in ethics, it refers to human conduct enforced by legitimate authority, grounded in reason.
St. Thomas' Definition of Law:
An ordinance of reason for the common good.
Must be just, honest, possible to fulfill, and directed towards the common good.
4. Attributes of Natural Law
Natural law is characterized by several properties:
Obligatory: Imposes a moral obligation based on reasonable duty.
Universal: Applicable to all humanity, regardless of cultural or religious differences.
Knowable: Understandable through reason.
Immutable: Unchangeable as it emanates from God’s nature.
5. Knowledge of the Natural Law
All individuals possess an inherent ability to understand the principles of natural law, which are evident in human nature. However, emotional impediments can cloud this knowledge.
Basic Human Inclinations (St. Thomas):
Self-Preservation
Propagation of the Species
Living in Peace with Others
Seeking Truth and Knowledge of the Good
6. Ethical Principles Under Natural Law Theory
These principles guide moral action, particularly in complex situations where outcomes can be mixed (e.g., the Principle of Double Effect). This principle allows for morally permissible actions with both positive and negative effects, given certain conditions.
Conditions for Double Effect:
Action must be good or neutral.
Harmful effect must not be intended but permitted as a side effect.
The good effect cannot be achieved through the bad effect.
Good must outweigh the harmful effect.
7. The Principle of Inviolability of Life
Human life is sacred and cannot be sacrificed; all lives hold infinite value. It is morally unacceptable to intentionally kill innocent life, such as in abortion or euthanasia.
8. The Principle of Forfeiture
This principle justifies self-defense where an aggressor forfeits the right to life by posing a threat to an innocent person. The moral legality of actions during defense situations is also discussed, contrasting killing and murder.
9. The Principle of Totality
In medical ethics, this principle states that parts of the body are for the good of the whole, allowing for the removal of defective organs only if it benefits overall health, but prohibits harming healthy parts.
10. The Principle of Stewardship
Stewardship emphasizes that life and creation belong to God, and humans are merely caretakers of these gifts. Actions such as suicide are considered morally wrong as they disregard this stewardship.
11. Just War Theory
A framework guided by natural law principles that justifies war under specific conditions (e.g., lawful authority, just cause, last resort). It articulates that violence is permissible only under strict moral criteria and must ultimately strive for peace and justice.
12. Justified Rebellion/Revolution
Natural law supports rebellion against tyrannical governments but lays out criteria to justify such actions, echoing just war principles, emphasizing public support, moral justification, and proportionality of consequences.
13. Strengths of Natural Law Theory
Advocates the inherent worth of human life.
Offers coherent moral guidance grounded in nature.
Rejects relativism, promoting universal moral values.
14. Criticisms of Natural Law Theory
The disconnect between 'is' and 'ought' raises questions about deriving moral principles from natural existence.
The complexity of human nature challenges the universality claimed by natural law.
Societal variations complicate the application of natural law across cultures.
These outlined points provide a comprehensive overview of natural law theory, its historical roots, ethical implications, and critical assessments that can aid in your understanding for the exam.