Natural law

Definition

Natural law is a philosophical concept that suggests certain rights and moral values are inherent in human nature and can be understood through reason. It posits that these principles exist independently of human-made laws and are universal, guiding ethical behavior and justice across different societies. This idea connects deeply with notions of justice in governance and the Stoic understanding of ethics, logic, and the universe.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Natural law has its roots in ancient Greek philosophy, particularly in the works of Aristotle, who linked natural law to human rationality and morality.
2. In Roman law, natural law was further developed by thinkers like Cicero, who emphasized its connection to justice and the common good.
3. Medieval philosophers such as Thomas Aquinas integrated Christian theology with natural law, arguing that it is part of divine providence.
4. Natural law serves as a foundation for modern human rights theories, asserting that certain rights are inherent and cannot be justly taken away.
5. The Stoics viewed natural law as aligning with the rational order of the universe, suggesting that living in accordance with this law leads to virtue and fulfillment.

Review Questions

• How does natural law relate to the concept of justice in politics?
  • Natural law is closely tied to the concept of justice in politics because it proposes that there are universal moral principles that should guide laws and governance. These principles help determine what is just or unjust in society, providing a standard for evaluating human-made laws. If a political system deviates from these natural rights, it can be considered unjust, highlighting the importance of aligning legal frameworks with moral reasoning.
• Discuss how Stoic philosophy incorporates the idea of natural law within its framework of ethics and logic.
  • Stoic philosophy incorporates natural law by asserting that it reflects the rational order of the universe. The Stoics believed that understanding natural law helps individuals align their actions with reason and virtue. In their view, living according to natural law leads to a harmonious life, where one acts ethically not only for personal gain but for the greater good. This connection emphasizes the importance of reason in both Stoic ethics and the pursuit of a just society.
• Evaluate the impact of natural law on contemporary discussions around human rights and social justice movements.
  • Natural law has significantly influenced contemporary discussions surrounding human rights by providing a philosophical basis for the idea that certain rights are inherent to all individuals. This perspective argues against laws or practices that violate these rights, supporting social justice movements advocating for equality and dignity. As activists draw upon natural law principles to challenge unjust systems, they highlight the enduring relevance of these ancient ideas in modern society's ongoing quest for fairness and justice.

Related terms

Universalism: The belief that certain ethical principles apply universally to all individuals, regardless of culture or personal beliefs.

Moral Realism: The philosophical view that there are objective moral facts that are independent of human opinion.

Stoicism:

An ancient Greek philosophy that teaches the development of self-control and fortitude as a means of overcoming destructive emotions.