Is Natural Law an adequate basis for moral desicion making?
- Created by: EmilyKnowles99
- Created on: 28-03-16 13:05
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- Natural Law: Is it an adequate basis for moral decision making?
- Yes
- 1) Derives from God
- Aquinas recognises 4 forms of law, eternal law being the highest. Natural Law is derived from eternal law
- God's will is everlasting and unchanging meaning that regardless of the times, God's plan for humanity will stand
- This means that Natural Law is adequate for any culture or time
- God's will is everlasting and unchanging meaning that regardless of the times, God's plan for humanity will stand
- Aquinas recognises 4 forms of law, eternal law being the highest. Natural Law is derived from eternal law
- 2) Provides clear cut, unambiguous laws
- Aquinas' natural law is absolutist meaning it applies to every situation at every time.
- In times of moral uncertainty, Natural Law will provide clear answers to what your actions should be.
- This means that Natural Law allows you to easily fulfil your purpose- to gain a 'right relationship with God'
- 1) Derives from God
- No
- 1) It's outdated
- Natural Law was written in by a 13th century monk
- In the 13th century, society and moral norms were completely different.
- For example, pleasure is a part of today's society therefore to do something for the pleasure of yourself and others is the norm
- Rather than to do something to gain a 'right relationship with God'
- 2) Ignores situations
- Aquinas' natural law is legalistic and absolutist meaning the laws apply to every situation
- However situations vary greatly meaning that the consequences of actions within those situations vary greatly
- If natural law is followed to the letter, the best consequence may be avoided
- For example, to steal to feed a starving child brings a loving consequence
- 1) It's outdated
- Yes
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