Natural Law Theory in less than 6 minutes

Summary

In this video, Camila Chad discusses natural law theory, developed by Thomas Aquinas from Aristotle and Stoic thought. It emphasizes that natural law is absolute, deontological, and grounded in belief in God. The theory is based on primary precepts, such as reproduction and life, which cannot be altered. Aquinas' theory allows for flexibility through the principle of double effect, addressing moral dilemmas like abortion. Natural law is influenced by Aristotle's causes and promotes virtues like prudence, temperance, and faith. While criticized for its flexibility, it remains influential in Catholic teachings, especially on topics like abortion.

Takeaways

• 😀 Natural law theory was developed by Thomas Aquinas in the 13th century, influenced by Aristotle and the Stoics.
• 😀 The theory is absolutist and deontological, meaning it emphasizes actions being right or wrong in all situations, independent of consequences.
• 😀 Belief in God is essential for adhering to natural law theory, as it holds that natural law is issued by God.
• 😀 Natural law theory stresses the use of innate human reason to determine how we should live.
• 😀 The theory outlines five primary precepts: reproduction, life, education, worshiping God, and law and order.
• 😀 Primary precepts are immutable and form the foundation of natural law theory, while secondary precepts apply them to specific situations.
• 😀 An example of natural law's application is the prohibition of life-threatening actions like murder, abortion, and euthanasia.
• 😀 The principle of double effect allows for actions that have both good and bad consequences if the act itself is not wrong and the evil outcome is not intended.
• 😀 Kasry applies primary precepts to specific circumstances, making natural law theory flexible, although some critics argue this weakens its absolutist nature.
• 😀 Natural law theory helps individuals develop both natural virtues (e.g., prudence, temperance, fortitude, and justice) and theological virtues (e.g., faith, hope, and charity).
• 😀 The theory is based on five assumptions: everything in nature has a purpose, nature was created by God, failure to develop nature is imperfection, nature’s moral laws are knowable through reason, and natural law is part of a divine plan.

Q & A

What is Natural Law Theory, and who developed it?

Natural Law Theory is a deontological and absolutist ethical theory developed by St. Thomas Aquinas in the 13th century. It is based on the idea that morality is determined by a universal natural law established by God.

Why must one believe in God to follow Natural Law Theory?

Natural Law Theory posits that the natural law, which dictates what is morally right and wrong, is divinely ordained by God. Therefore, belief in God is essential to understanding and following this moral framework.

What are the five primary precepts in Natural Law Theory?

The five primary precepts of Natural Law are: 1) Reproduction, 2) Life, 3) Education, 4) Worshiping God, and 5) Law and Order. These precepts represent the core purposes of human life and guide moral actions.

How are secondary precepts derived from the primary precepts?

Secondary precepts are derived from the primary precepts and apply them to specific situations. While primary precepts are immutable and universal, secondary precepts can be adapted based on particular circumstances.

What is the principle of double effect in Natural Law Theory?

The principle of double effect applies when an action leads to both good and bad consequences. It states that an action can be morally permissible if the act itself is good, and the harmful consequence is not directly intended but foreseen.

Can you explain an example of the principle of double effect?

An example is when a doctor performs a hysterectomy on a pregnant woman with cervical cancer. If the baby dies but the mother survives, the doctor's intention is to save the mother's life, making the action morally permissible despite the unintended death of the fetus.

What is the criticism of flexibility within Natural Law Theory?

Some critics argue that the flexibility allowed in applying Natural Law, such as in the principle of double effect, contradicts the theory's absolutist nature. This inconsistency between rigidity and flexibility is seen as a weakness by some scholars.

How did Aristotle influence Aquinas's Natural Law Theory?

Aristotle influenced Aquinas's Natural Law Theory through his concepts of efficient and final causes. Aquinas used these ideas to explain that the 'final cause' represents the ultimate purpose (the good), and the 'efficient cause' refers to the necessary processes to achieve that purpose.

What are the natural and theological virtues in the context of Natural Law?

Natural virtues, such as prudence, temperance, fortitude, and justice, help individuals align with moral law. Theological virtues, including faith, hope, and charity, guide individuals in fulfilling their relationship with God and perfecting their moral character.

How does Natural Law Theory relate to Roman Catholic teachings on abortion?

Natural Law Theory has influenced Roman Catholic teachings, particularly on issues like abortion. According to the theory, abortion is wrong because it destroys life, which is seen as violating the primary precept of life, which upholds the sanctity of life.