Natural order

Definition

Natural order refers to the belief that there is a universal moral law that governs human behavior, which can be understood through reason and observation of the world. This concept connects to the idea that humans have an innate understanding of right and wrong, often believed to be aligned with God's will. In discussions about contemporary moral issues, natural order serves as a foundation for determining what is considered ethical or moral in various contexts.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Natural order is often used by Christians to argue against practices they believe violate divine laws, such as abortion or euthanasia.
2. The idea of natural order suggests that moral principles are not merely subjective but are rooted in the design of the universe.
3. Christian thinkers like Thomas Aquinas emphasized the importance of natural law in understanding moral behavior and decision-making.
4. In contemporary discussions, natural order is often invoked in debates over social issues, such as marriage, family structure, and bioethics.
5. The concept challenges relativistic views of morality by asserting that there are universal truths applicable to all humanity.

Review Questions

• How does the concept of natural order influence Christian perspectives on contemporary moral issues?
  • Natural order influences Christian perspectives by providing a framework for understanding moral dilemmas through the lens of a universal moral law. This belief suggests that certain behaviors are inherently right or wrong based on their alignment with God's design for humanity. For instance, many Christians may oppose practices like abortion or same-sex marriage because they perceive these actions as contrary to the natural order established by God.
• Discuss how natural law relates to the broader idea of ethics within Christian thought.
  • Natural law is integral to the ethical framework within Christian thought, as it posits that moral truths can be discovered through reason and observation. This idea supports the belief that ethics are not solely dictated by scripture but are also accessible through understanding the natural world and human nature. Consequently, Christians often use natural law to advocate for ethical positions that align with their interpretation of divine will.
• Evaluate the implications of rejecting the concept of natural order in moral discussions from a Christian perspective.
  • Rejecting the concept of natural order can significantly alter moral discussions within Christianity by leading to a more relativistic approach to ethics. If moral principles are seen as subjective and dependent on individual or cultural beliefs, it undermines the notion of absolute truths that many Christians hold dear. This shift could result in conflicts over fundamental issues such as human rights, social justice, and family values, challenging traditional interpretations of morality and potentially leading to a breakdown in communal standards.

Related terms

Natural Law: A philosophical belief that certain rights and moral values are inherent in human nature and can be discerned through reason.

Ethics: The study of what is morally right and wrong, guiding human conduct based on principles and values.

Moral Absolutism: The belief that there are absolute standards of morality that apply universally, regardless of context or situation.