Natural law

Definition

Natural law refers to a philosophical and ethical theory that posits certain rights and moral values are inherent in human nature and can be understood through reason. This concept suggests that there are universal principles of justice that transcend human-made laws and should guide moral behavior and governance. The discussion of natural law has significantly influenced key philosophical debates and theological discussions throughout history, shaping views on morality, justice, and the role of government.

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 argued for an objective moral order based on human nature.
2. In the Middle Ages, thinkers like Thomas Aquinas expanded upon natural law by linking it to Christian teachings, suggesting that God's eternal law could be discovered through human reason.
3. Natural law asserts that there are fundamental rights and moral truths that are universal and can be recognized across different cultures and societies.
4. This concept played a crucial role in the development of modern legal systems and political theories, influencing the ideas of key figures like John Locke, who emphasized the protection of natural rights in government.
5. Debates surrounding natural law have been pivotal in discussions about human rights, justice, and the legitimacy of laws that conflict with inherent moral values.

Review Questions

• How did philosophers like Thomas Aquinas contribute to the understanding of natural law during the Middle Ages?
  • Thomas Aquinas significantly shaped the understanding of natural law by synthesizing Aristotelian philosophy with Christian theology. He argued that natural law was part of God's eternal law and could be discerned through human reason. Aquinas believed that by understanding natural law, individuals could align their actions with divine will and thus achieve moral good, which reinforced the connection between ethics and spirituality during the Middle Ages.
• In what ways does natural law influence modern discussions about morality and justice?
  • Natural law continues to influence modern discussions about morality and justice by providing a framework for evaluating laws against universal principles of right and wrong. This approach encourages debates on human rights and the legitimacy of government actions. For instance, when laws conflict with what is perceived as fundamental human rights, advocates often invoke natural law arguments to challenge those laws and promote justice rooted in inherent moral truths.
• Evaluate the implications of natural law on social contract theory in shaping political philosophy.
  • Natural law has profound implications for social contract theory by asserting that individuals possess inherent rights that must be protected by any legitimate government. This concept challenges purely utilitarian or authoritarian frameworks by emphasizing that governance should reflect these universal moral principles. Philosophers like John Locke used natural law to argue that government's primary role is to safeguard individuals' natural rights to life, liberty, and property, thus establishing a foundation for democratic governance based on mutual consent and respect for individual dignity.

Related terms

Thomas Aquinas:

A medieval philosopher and theologian who integrated Aristotelian philosophy with Christian theology, emphasizing natural law as a means to understand divine law.

Moral Absolutism: The belief that certain actions are intrinsically right or wrong, regardless of context or consequences, closely linked to the principles of natural law.

Social Contract Theory: The philosophical idea that individuals consent, either explicitly or implicitly, to form a government that will protect their natural rights, often drawing from concepts of natural law.