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Aquinas natural law Flashcards

1
Q

What is natural law based on?

A

Natural law is based on a particular view and nature of the universe.

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2
Q

What does natural law assume about the universe?

A

Natural law assumes that the universe has a natural order that works to achieve an ‘end’ or ‘purpose’.

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3
Q

What is believed to determine the order, direction, and purpose of the universe in natural law theory?

A

The order, direction, and purpose of the universe are believed to be determined by a supernatural power.

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4
Q

What does the term “telos” mean in the context of natural law?

A

Telos means purpose or end goal.

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5
Q

What is the telos for humans according to natural law theory?

A

The telos for humans is eudaimonia.

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6
Q

Define synderesis.

A

Synderesis is the innate knowledge of a basic moral principle: to do good and avoid evil.

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7
Q

What is a precept in the context of natural law?

A

A precept is a rule intended to regulate human behaviour.

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8
Q

How is reason defined in natural law theory?

A

Reason is the capacity of applying logic consciously by drawing conclusions from new or existing information, with the aim of seeking the truth.

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9
Q

From what idea did natural law originate?

A

Natural law originated from the idea that everything has a purpose (telos).

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10
Q

How can the purpose (telos) of something be determined?

A

The purpose (telos) can be deduced from the design of it.

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11
Q

According to natural law, what defines something as “good”?

A

Good comes from fulfilling that purpose (telos).

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12
Q

On what basis is natural law interpreted?

A

Natural law is based on nature as interpreted by human reason.

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13
Q

Is natural law primarily deontological or teleological?

A

Natural law is mostly deontological but has some teleological aspects.

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14
Q

What type of ethical theory is natural law classified as in terms of identifying right actions?

A

Natural law is absolutist as right actions can be identified.

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15
Q

Who created natural law and where is it particularly influential?

A

Natural law was created by St. Thomas Aquinas and is influential within the Catholic Church.

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16
Q

Who are the two main philosophers associated with natural law?

A

Aristotle and St. Thomas Aquinas.

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17
Q

Who is credited with natural law’s first appearance and what was his profession?

A

Cicero, a Roman lawyer, is credited with natural law’s first appearance.

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18
Q

What is Cicero’s famous quote about true law?

A

“True law is right reason in agreement with nature.”

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19
Q

What was Cicero’s profession and philosophical stance?

A

Cicero was a Roman philosopher who believed in the universality of ethical laws, rejecting the idea that ethics is subjective.

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20
Q

What is Cicero’s view on the universality of laws?

A

Cicero believed that there is one universal law for humanity, not different laws for different places or times.

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21
Q

What does Cicero’s quote about law emphasise about the nature of ethical laws?

A

Cicero’s quote emphasises that there will be not one law at Rome and another at Athens, or one now and another later, but one law that is everlasting and unchangeable, encompassing all nations and all times.

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22
Q

According to natural law, what are the characteristics of the universal law?

A

The universal law is absolute, timeless, and eternal. It is binding upon all people in all places at all times and is discoverable through reason.

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23
Q

What does Aquinas say belongs to natural law according to “Summa Theologica”?

A

“To the Natural Law belongs everything to which a man is inclined according to his nature.”

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24
Q

What is the essence of natural law according to Aquinas?

A

We have this natural law that needs to be discovered and followed.

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25
Q

According to Aquinas, what should humans do by nature?

A

By nature, we should do good and avoid evil.

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26
Q

What does H.L.A. Hart say about the principles of human conduct and their discovery?

A

H.L.A. Hart says that there are certain principles of human conduct awaiting discovery by human reason.

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27
Q

According to H.L.A. Hart, what must human law conform to in order to be valid?

A

Human law must conform to the principles of human conduct discovered by reason if it is to be valid.

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28
Q

What does “awaiting discovery by human reason” imply about the nature of rules and morality?

A

It implies that we should not invent our own rules because they suit us; instead, we are discovering a universal, eternal law that is binding upon all people at all times.

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29
Q

How does Hart’s view relate to the concept of eternal law and its characteristics?

A

Eternal law is discovered by reason and then followed, showing that morality is objective and absolute.

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30
Q

What does Hart’s perspective indicate about the objectivity and absoluteness of morality?

A

Hart’s perspective indicates that morality is not a matter of personal opinion or preference but is based on objective, absolute eternal laws that are discovered by reason.

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31
Q

What are the ancient philosophical influences on Aquinas’s natural law theory?

A

Natural law predates Aquinas and can be traced back to ancient Greek philosophy, particularly Aristotle and the Stoics.

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32
Q

What are the four tiers of law according to Aquinas?

A

The four tiers of law according to Aquinas are Eternal Law, Divine Law, Natural Law, and Human Law.

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33
Q

What does the concept of synderesis entail in Aquinas’s natural law?

A

Synderesis is the innate knowledge of basic moral principles, specifically the principle “to do good and avoid evil.”

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34
Q

What are primary precepts and secondary precepts in Aquinas’s natural law?

A

Primary precepts are the basic principles of natural law that are universally true and binding, such as preserving life, reproducing, and seeking the truth. Secondary precepts are the specific rules derived from these primary principles, which can vary according to circumstances.

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35
Q

How does the doctrine of double effect relate to natural law?

A

The doctrine of double effect states that an action with both a good and a bad effect can be morally permissible if the bad effect is not intended and the good effect outweighs the bad. This doctrine is often applied in natural law ethics.

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36
Q

What is proportionalism in the context of natural law?

A

Proportionalism is a development within natural law that suggests that actions are morally right if the good outcomes proportionally outweigh the bad outcomes, taking into consideration the context and circumstances.

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37
Q

How did Aquinas’s approach to natural law differ from ancient Greek philosophy?

A

While ancient Greek philosophy, particularly Aristotle, influenced natural law, Aquinas integrated these ideas into a Christian framework, emphasising that natural law is part of God’s eternal law and highlighting the role of divine revelation.

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38
Q

Why is it important to understand applications and proportionalism when discussing natural moral law?

A

Applications and proportionalism are important developments of natural law, providing nuanced approaches to moral decision-making. Understanding them helps in discussing how natural law can be applied in various situations and in evaluating its practical implications.

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39
Q

How did Stoicism view the world?

A

Stoicism viewed the world as an ordered place arranged by nature, or by the gods, in the best way possible.

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40
Q

What did the Stoics believe about the nature of the universe and how we should conduct ourselves?

A

The Stoics believed that the world was an ordered place and that nature tells us how we should conduct ourselves and what the right thing to do is.

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41
Q

What is the “divine spark” according to Stoic philosophy?

A

The “divine spark” is an innate ability within humans that enables them to reason and understand the universe.

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42
Q

How does the Stoic belief in the divine spark relate to human reason?

A

The Stoics believed that this divine spark allowed humans to use their reason to observe nature and work out the right way to conduct themselves and lead their lives.

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43
Q

According to Stoicism, what is the path to human happiness and a good life?

A

The path to human happiness and a good life is to accept the natural order of things and live according to nature’s rules.

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44
Q

How does the concept of natural law relate to the Stoic view of the natural order?

A

Natural law is living in accordance with the natural order of things and living according to nature’s rules, which can be understood by using reason to observe the world.

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45
Q

What is the connection between the design argument and natural law in Stoicism?

A

The design argument suggests that one can know God’s existence through the observation of nature. In terms of natural law, one can understand what God wants humans to do by using reason to interpret the natural world.

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46
Q

Why did the Stoics favor reason over emotion?

A

The Stoics favored reason (mind) over emotion (heart) because they believed that reason is essential for understanding the natural order and determining the right way to behave.

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47
Q

How is the Stoic emphasis on reason important to natural law?

A

The Stoic emphasis on reason is important to natural law because it underlies the belief that humans can use their rational abilities to discern the natural order and moral principles that should guide their conduct.

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48
Q

How did Aquinas draw upon Aristotle’s ideas in his development of natural law theory?

A

Aquinas developed many of his ideas from his reading of Aristotle, particularly regarding the concept of telos and the purpose of human life.

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49
Q

What did Aristotle believe about the universe and everything within it?

A

Aristotle believed that the universe and everything within it has a telos, or end or purpose.

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50
Q

What does “telos” mean according to Aristotle?

A

“Telos” means end or purpose. According to Aristotle, everything has a purpose or aim.

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51
Q

What is the telos of humans according to Aristotle?

A

The telos of humans, according to Aristotle, is to achieve Eudaimonia - a state of supreme happiness, flourishing, and fulfillment.

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52
Q

Define “Eudaimonia” according to Aristotle.

A

Eudaimonia is a state of supreme happiness, flourishing, and fulfillment, which is considered the ultimate goal of human life by Aristotle.

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53
Q

How did Aquinas incorporate Aristotle’s ideas in his argument for the existence of God?

A

Aquinas was influenced by Aristotle in the development of his argument for the existence of God, particularly in his use of teleological arguments, which suggest that the design and order observed in the universe imply the existence of a divine creator.

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54
Q

How did Aquinas agree with Aristotle regarding the nature of human existence?

A

Aquinas agreed with Aristotle that rationality or the ability to reason was a fundamental aspect of human existence.

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55
Q

What did Aquinas agree with Aristotle about regarding the purpose of everything?

A

Aquinas agreed with Aristotle that everything had a purpose.

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56
Q

How did Aquinas differ from Aristotle regarding the origin of purpose?

A

While Aristotle did not attribute the purpose of everything to a divine source, Aquinas argued that the purpose of everything was given to it by God.

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57
Q

Which of Aristotle’s ideas did Aquinas incorporate regarding virtues, and how did Aquinas expand upon them?

A

Aquinas incorporated Aristotle’s ideas about the four cardinal virtues but expanded upon them by emphasising that the purpose of developing these virtues was to fulfil one’s true nature in relation to God.

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58
Q

What was the purpose of developing the cardinal virtues according to Aquinas?

A

According to Aquinas, the purpose of developing the cardinal virtues was to develop as a human being and fulfill one’s true nature in relation to God.

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59
Q

How did the concept of “telos” influence Aquinas’s understanding of human purpose?

A

The concept of “telos” influenced Aquinas’s understanding of human purpose by suggesting that humans have a specific end or purpose that they should strive to fulfill.

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60
Q

What did Aquinas derive from Aristotle regarding the concept of telos?

A

Aquinas derived from Aristotle the idea of telos, particularly the concept of eudaimonia, which refers to a state of supreme happiness and fulfilment.

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61
Q

How did Aquinas view the role of reason in understanding the world and natural law?

A

Aquinas believed that reason was essential for understanding the ordered and rational world created by God. He argued that humans have the capacity, given by God, to understand the world and should use right reason to interpret and make sense of it, which would allow them to understand natural law.

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62
Q

What distinguishes humans from other animals according to Aquinas, and how does this relate to reason?

A

Aquinas believed that humans have a unique ability to reason, unlike other animals. This ability to reason allows humans to think, interpret, and make sense of the world, which is crucial for understanding natural law.

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63
Q

How did the concept of “nature” impact Aquinas’s ethical framework?

A

The concept of “nature” influenced Aquinas’s ethical framework by emphasizing the importance of human nature and the need to act in accordance with it.

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64
Q

What implications did the concept of “nature” have for Aquinas’s views on certain behaviours, like homosexuality?

A

The concept of “nature” led Aquinas to believe that certain behaviors, like homosexuality, are unnatural because they go against the inherent order of human nature. He argued that humans should live in accordance with nature, which includes following natural law principles.

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65
Q

Who are the two main philosophers associated with Natural Law?

A

Aristotle and Aquinas

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66
Q

What did Natural Law originate from?

A

Everything has a purpose, purpose comes from the design of it.

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67
Q

What did Cicero mean by “one law everlasting and unchangeable will encompass all nature for all time”?

A

One universal law that is absolute, timeless, and eternal - binding upon all people in all places at all time.

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68
Q

How does good come about?

A

Through fulfilling the purpose (telos).

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69
Q

What is humans telos?

A

Eudaimonia - human flourishing.

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70
Q

What is Natural Law based on and how do we find out what is good?

A

Based on nature, through interpreting nature through human reason.

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71
Q

What is synderesis?

A

Innate knowledge of moral principle - ‘do good and avoid evil’.

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72
Q

What type of theory is Natural Law?

A

Absolutists as right actions can be identified

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73
Q

Who created Natural Law and what denomination of Christianity does it influence?

A

ST Thomas Aquinas - influential within the catholic church.

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74
Q

What is the creator of Natural Law book called?

A

Summa Theologica.

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75
Q

What is Aquinas’s conclusion about where happiness is found?

A

Aquinas concludes that happiness is found in God alone.

76
Q

What term does Aquinas use to describe the earthly goal of humans?

A

Aquinas describes the earthly goal of humans as “human flourishing,” which is a state of supreme happiness.

77
Q

How does following the Five Primary Precepts contribute to human flourishing, according to Aquinas?

A

Following the Five Primary Precepts helps to facilitate human flourishing.

78
Q

According to Aquinas, where can complete happiness be found?

A

Aquinas believes that complete happiness can only be found in God alone.

79
Q

What is the “beatific vision” in Aquinas’s theology?

A

The “beatific vision” is the eternal and direct visual perception of God, which is achieved after death.

80
Q

According to Servais Pinckaers, where does full happiness reside?

A

According to Servais Pinckaers, full happiness does not reside in any created reality, but in the loving vision of God.

81
Q

What is the central focus of Natural Law according to the provided summary?

A

The central focus of Natural Law is the fulfilment of the apparent telos, or purpose, which is achieving happiness in God.

82
Q

What does Aquinas reason about the universe’s creation by God in relation to humans?

A

Aquinas reasons that since the universe was created by God with an end purpose, humans, as an integral part of the universe, must also have an ultimate purpose.

83
Q

What are the two main aims of natural law according to Aquinas’s interpretation?

A

The two main aims of natural law, according to Aquinas, are to explain the end purpose for humans given by God and to elucidate how to achieve this purpose.

84
Q

What is the first aim of natural law, as outlined by Aquinas?

A

The first aim is to explain what the end purpose for humans is, given by God.

85
Q

According to Aquinas, what is the end purpose for humans given by God?

A

Aquinas posits that the end purpose for humans given by God is to achieve eternal life in Heaven with God.

86
Q

How does Aristotle’s concept of eudaimonia differ from Aquinas’s interpretation of the end purpose for humans?

A

Aristotle’s concept of eudaimonia refers to happiness or flourishing, while Aquinas’s interpretation of the end purpose for humans involves achieving eternal life in Heaven with God.

87
Q

What is the second aim of natural law, as outlined by Aquinas?

A

The second aim is to explain how to achieve the end purpose.

88
Q

What does Aquinas suggest is the means to achieve the end purpose for humans?

A

Aquinas suggests that the means to achieve the end purpose is to become more like God, known as the highest good or beatific vision.

89
Q

What is the highest good or beatific vision, according to Aquinas?

A

The highest good or beatific vision, according to Aquinas, is to develop in the image of God.

90
Q

What biblical passage is often cited to illustrate the concept that all humans have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God?

A

Romans 3:23.

91
Q

What story in Genesis is commonly referenced to explain the concept of the Fall of Man?

A

The story of the temptation in the Garden of Eden, found in Genesis chapters 2 and 3.

92
Q

According to the Genesis story, what caused the Fall of Man?

A

The temptation in the Garden of Eden, involving the serpent, the woman, and the man, led to the Fall of Man.

93
Q

What is the primary purpose for humans in light of the Fall of Man?

A

The primary purpose for humans is to gain peace and harmony in a right relationship with God.

94
Q

Why is it necessary for humans to use their God-given reason?

A

It is necessary for humans to use their God-given reason to work out how to achieve the Highest Good, which is becoming more like God.

95
Q

What is the ultimate goal for humans

A

The ultimate goal for humans is to achieve the Highest Good, which involves becoming more like God.

96
Q

what is eternal law

A

the principle by which God governs the universe , we can only know these in part.

96
Q

what are the four levels of law

A
  1. eternal law
  2. divine law
  3. natural law
  4. human law
97
Q

what is divine law

A

the Bible which guides us in reaching our goal of perfection , this is aimed at correcting the fall of human beings , but perfection is not achievable in this life.

98
Q

what is natural law

A

part of the eternal law that can be known through natural reason and which applies to human choices.

99
Q

what is human law

A

recognition of a need to seek the common good by establishing rules based on experienced judgements, this can sometimes involve wrong reasoning leading to injustice.

100
Q

What is the nature of Eternal Law, and how is it described?

A

Eternal Law is unchanging and ultimate, binding upon all people at all times and places. It is only known in God’s mind and is inaccessible to humans directly.

101
Q

How can humans access and understand Eternal Law?

A

Humans can access and understand Eternal Law through Divine Law, revealed in scripture, commandments, and teachings of Jesus, as well as through Natural Law. Reason plays a crucial role in interpreting Eternal Law.

102
Q

What role do Divine Law and Natural Law play in accessing Eternal Law?

A

Divine Law and Natural Law serve as avenues through which humans can understand and access Eternal Law. They reveal the principles and guidance necessary to comprehend the ultimate law.

103
Q

How does Aquinas define the relationship between Human Law and Divine/Natural Law?

A

According to Aquinas, Human Law is just only if it aligns with Divine and Natural Law. Laws created by society should be in accordance with Eternal Law to be considered just.

104
Q

According to Aquinas, when is it justifiable to disobey secular rules?

A

It is justifiable to disobey secular rules when they command unjust things. Subjects are not obliged to obey laws that contradict Divine and Natural Law.

105
Q

What principle guides the obedience to secular laws according to Aquinas?

A

The principle guiding obedience to secular laws is that they should be consistent with the higher tiers of the Four Tiers of Law, particularly Divine and Natural Law.

106
Q

Provide an example of a situation where Aquinas’s principle on obedience to secular laws would apply.

A

An example could be laws legalising actions or behaviours that are contrary to Natural Law and Divine Law, such as laws legalising practices like euthanasia or same-sex marriage. According to Aquinas, individuals would not be obliged to obey such laws as they go against higher principles of justice.

107
Q

Can atheists believe in Natural Law according to Aquinas, and why or why not?

A

While Natural Law can be upheld by atheists, Aquinas believed that without God, there seems to be no compelling reason to adhere to it.

108
Q

What was one goal of human life according to Aquinas’s Natural Law thinking?

A

One goal of human life, according to Aquinas, was the vision of God promised in the next life.

109
Q

What is the difference between teleological and deontological ethics?

A

Teleological ethics focus on the consequences of actions (telos), while deontological ethics focus on the inherent rightness or wrongness of actions (deon).

110
Q

How do deontological ethics define right and wrong?

A

Deontological ethics assert that actions are intrinsically right or wrong based on duty, regardless of their consequences.

111
Q

How do teleological ethics define right and wrong?

A

Teleological ethics define right or wrong based on the consequences of actions, with the emphasis on achieving a particular end or purpose.

112
Q

What is the Synderesis principle, and what does it assert about human nature?

A

The Synderesis principle asserts that human beings, by nature, want to do good and avoid evil.

113
Q

How can we ensure we follow the Synderesis principle according to Aquinas?

A

We can ensure we follow the Synderesis principle by adhering to the precepts, which are purposes reasoned by looking at humanity’s natural inclinations, leading us towards fulfilling our purpose (telos). These precepts apply to all human beings without exception.

114
Q

According to Aquinas, how can humans understand their moral duties?

A

Aquinas argues that humans can understand their moral duties by using human reason.

115
Q

What are the five primary precepts outlined by Aquinas?

A
  1. Protect the innocent
  2. order society
  3. worship God
  4. educate
  5. reproduce
116
Q

what do the primary precepts help us to identify

A

The Primary Precepts help us to identify what our God given purposes are, we can identify acts that are good by deciding if they help us to fulfil that purpose.

117
Q

what will happen if we fulfil the primary precepts

A

If we fufil them, they will bring us closer to God and help us to repair our relationship with God after ‘the fall’. Then we can gain eternal life with God in Heaven.

118
Q

What are Secondary Precepts according to Aquinas?

A

Secondary Precepts are absolute deontological principles derived from the Primary Precepts.

119
Q

How are Secondary Precepts derived from the Primary Precepts?

A

Secondary Precepts are derived from the Primary Precepts, serving as specific rules that guide human actions in accordance with the broader moral principles.

120
Q

What type of principles are Secondary Precepts?

A

Secondary Precepts are absolute laws that cannot be broken, regardless of the consequences.

121
Q

Can Secondary Precepts be broken according to Aquinas, and why?

A

No, Secondary Precepts cannot be broken according to Aquinas because they are absolute laws derived from fundamental moral principles.

122
Q

example of secondary precepts - preserve life

A

it is wrong to murder.
it is wrong to preform an abortion

123
Q

example of secondary precept - reproduction

A

do not have homosexual sex
do not use contraception

124
Q

example of secondary precept - educate children

A

it is wrong for children to not go to school

125
Q

example of secondary precept - live in society

A

it is wrong to steal
it is wrong to lie

126
Q

example of secondary precept - worship God

A

you must go to Church
people should remember the sabbath days

127
Q

How do virtues relate to the observance of Secondary Precepts?

A

Virtuous character traits help individuals uphold Secondary Precepts and adhere to moral principles, ensuring correct reasoning and moral conduct.

128
Q

How did Aquinas define a virtue?

A

Aquinas defined a virtue as an excellence in human character.

129
Q

How many virtues did Aquinas identify, and what role do they play in upholding principles?

A

Aquinas identified seven virtues, which help individuals uphold moral principles and ensure correct reasoning in their actions.

130
Q

What are the three revealed virtues, also known as theological virtues?

A

The three revealed virtues, also known as theological virtues, are faith, hope, and love.

131
Q

What is the origin of the theological virtues?

A

The theological virtues originate from the Bible and are considered the highest quality virtues that direct all other virtues.

132
Q

Are the theological virtues achievable in this life?

A

No, the theological virtues are aspirational and perfect and cannot be fully achieved in this life.

133
Q

How do the theological virtues aid individuals in their journey towards eudaimonia or the beatific vision?

A

The theological virtues help individuals in their journey towards eudaimonia or the beatific vision by guiding them towards their ultimate end goal of perfect happiness with God.

134
Q

How is faith defined in the context of the theological virtues?

A

Faith is more than just an acknowledgement of the divine; it is an act of will involving the whole person and a total outpouring to the divine.

135
Q

What distinguishes hope as a theological virtue?

A

Hope is the constant and consistent trust in achieving the beatific vision, serving as a pure form of desire focused on driving individuals towards their end goal.

136
Q

How does love function within the theological virtues?

A

Love for God, reflected in love for our neighbour (agape), actively directs all other virtues towards God.

137
Q

According to Corinthians, what role does love play in relation to other virtues?

A

According to Corinthians, love is essential, as without it, all other virtues are rendered meaningless.

138
Q

Besides directing virtues towards God, what healing property does love possess?

A

Love possesses a healing property that restores our fallen nature.

139
Q

What are the four cardinal virtues, and what do they aim to cultivate?

A

The four cardinal virtues are prudence, temperance, fortitude, and justice, aiming to cultivate correct reasoning and moral excellence.

140
Q

What is the origin of the four cardinal virtues?

A

The four cardinal virtues originate from the work of Aristotle.

141
Q

What does prudence entail, and can you provide an example?

A

Prudence involves the ability to judge appropriate actions at a given time. For example, knowing when to stand up for something and when to back down.

142
Q

Define temperance and provide an example of its application.

A

Temperance is self-discipline, such as the ability to resist temptations, like overeating or oversleeping.

143
Q

Describe fortitude and its significance in moral development.

A

Fortitude is courage and overcoming fear, essential for facing challenges and sticking to moral principles even in difficult situations.

144
Q

What does justice encourage individuals to do?

A

Justice encourages individuals to look outward, to act fairly and make a stand for what is right.

145
Q

What are real and apparent goods, and how do they relate to actions?

A

Real goods refer to the genuine benefits or virtues attained through actions, while apparent goods are superficial or deceptive. They relate to actions by influencing their moral quality.

146
Q

What distinguishes the exterior aspect of an action?

A

The exterior aspect of an action refers to the physical act itself, guided by primary or secondary precepts.

147
Q

Explain the significance of distinguishing between the exterior and interior aspects of actions.

A

Distinguishing between the exterior and interior aspects of actions helps prevent actions from being morally deceptive or hypocritical.

148
Q

According to Aquinas, why is it important to consider both the interior and exterior aspects of actions?

A

Aquinas emphasized considering both aspects to ensure that actions are morally good, as the intention behind the action informs its moral quality, and the end does not justify the means.

149
Q

How does the Doctrine of Double Effect manage situations where moral precepts conflict?

A

The Doctrine of Double Effect manages conflicts between moral precepts by prioritising the internal act behind external actions, ensuring that the intended action is judged rather than the unintended consequence.

149
Q

What is the Doctrine of Double Effect (DDE), and why is it accepted in the Catholic Church?

A

The Doctrine of Double Effect (DDE) states that if an action is performed with a good intention and has an unintended secondary outcome, the act is acceptable. It is accepted in the Catholic Church to manage moral conflicts.

150
Q

Can you provide an example of a situation where moral precepts conflict, as recognised by Aquinas?

A

An example recognized by Aquinas is the scenario where someone, in self-defense, kills their attacker, violating the primary precept to preserve life.

151
Q

What principle did Aquinas develop to manage conflicts between moral precepts?

A

Aquinas developed the Doctrine of Double Effect (DDE) to manage conflicts between moral precepts.

152
Q

According to the Doctrine of Double Effect, what is the deciding factor in determining whether an action is good or evil in cases of double effect?

A

The deciding factor is the internal act behind external actions, where the good intention makes the action good, even if a bad consequence occurs.

153
Q

Explain the role of intention in the Doctrine of Double Effect.

A

Intention plays a crucial role in the Doctrine of Double Effect, as actions with a good intention are considered acceptable, even if they result in unintended bad consequences.

154
Q

Can a bad consequence be intended according to the Doctrine of Double Effect?

A

No, according to the Doctrine of Double Effect, a bad consequence must not be intended; it is only permitted if it is an unintended side effect of the action.

155
Q

What must be the nature of the bad effect for it to be permissible under the Doctrine of Double Effect?

A

The bad effect must not be intended for itself but only permitted as a side effect of the intended action.

156
Q

Provide the criteria outlined by the Doctrine of Double Effect (DDE).

A

According to DDE, the bad effect must not be intended for itself, only permitted, and there must be a proportionately grave reason for permitting the bad effect.

157
Q

What did Aquinas believe about human inclination towards good and union with God?

A

Aquinas believed that everyone has a sense of natural law within them, inclining them towards doing good and seeking union with God.

158
Q

According to Aquinas, why do people sometimes fail to follow Natural Law?

A

Aquinas believed that people sometimes fail to follow Natural Law not because they are evil, but because they use their reason incorrectly, leading to errors in their reasoning.

159
Q

What distinction did Aquinas make between real goods and apparent goods?

A

Aquinas distinguished between real goods, which lead individuals to achieve their purpose and union with God, and apparent goods, which may seem pleasurable but ultimately lead away from their purpose.

160
Q

Define real goods according to Aquinas.

A

Real goods are decisions made with reason that lead individuals to fulfil their potential and achieve union with God, in accordance with Natural Law.

161
Q

Define apparent goods according to Aquinas.

A

Apparent goods are decisions that may seem pleasurable but ultimately lead individuals away from their purpose and do not align with Natural Law.

162
Q

Apparent goods are decisions that may seem pleasurable but ultimately lead individuals away from their purpose and do not align with Natural Law.

A

Socrates first made the distinction between real and apparent goods, emphasizing that individuals may desire things they judge to be good at the moment, but their judgment does not necessarily make the action good.

163
Q

Provide an example of an apparent good according to Aquinas.

A

An example of an apparent good according to Aquinas is indulging in excessive eating because the food tastes good, which violates the virtue of temperance and leads away from one’s purpose.

164
Q

What did Aquinas attribute the pursuit of apparent goods to?

A

Aquinas attributed the pursuit of apparent goods to our “fallen” nature, which leads us astray due to errors in reasoning.

165
Q

Why did Aquinas believe that people choose to do evil acts?

A

Aquinas believed that people choose to do evil acts because they use their ability to reason incorrectly, leading them to mistakenly believe that they are doing something good.

166
Q

What is a strength of Natural Law regarding human rights, as exemplified by the Human Rights Charter of the United Nations?

A

Natural Law promotes human rights, appealing to both religious and non-religious individuals, as evidenced by the similarities between the Human Rights Charter and Natural Law’s Primary Precepts.

167
Q

What are some strengths of Natural Law theory?

A

Strengths of Natural Law include its basis in human nature and natural inclinations, its objectivity, universality across cultures and religions, appeal to common sense, and encouragement of virtuous behaviour.

168
Q

What is the Naturalistic fallacy, and how does it relate to Natural Law?

A

The Naturalistic fallacy asserts that just because something is natural, it doesn’t necessarily mean it’s good. This criticism applies to Natural Law, which assumes that what “is” (natural) implies what “ought” to be (morally good).

169
Q

What is a weakness of Natural Law theory regarding cultural relativism?

A

One weakness of Natural Law theory is its susceptibility to cultural relativism, as different cultures may have varying values, and societal norms change over time, potentially undermining the universality of Natural Law principles.

170
Q

Why might some sociologists argue against Natural Law?

A

Sociologists might argue against Natural Law due to the perception that modern society is less inclined to accept deontological rules, and non-believers may not feel compelled to follow a moral system based on fulfilling God’s will, as proposed by Aquinas’ Natural Law.

171
Q

list the deontological aspects of natural law

A
172
Q

list the teleological aspects of natural law

A

Morality is judged by the outcome/telos (purpose/goal).
Purpose of Natural Law (in the world and in humans – have an end goal).
The Highest Good – become more like God.
Rational thought – using God given reason to work out our purpose (telos).
The Highest Good/Beatific Vision – become more like God/getting to heaven .
Primary Precepts – come from using reason to work out our purpose.
Doctrine of double effect .

173
Q

In the UK, what is the law regarding abortion?

A

Up to 24 weeks, also can occur at any time before birth, in cases where continuing with the pregnancy would result in the death of, or grave and permanent injury to the person who is pregnant, or substantial risk that the child will be born with a severe disability - in these cases, abortion can occur anytime before birth.

174
Q

Why is abortion controversial? What is the debate about? Make sure you define the key terms – pre-embryo, embryo & foetus

A

Debate about what is actually being ended when a pregnancy is terminated – pre-embryo, embryo or foetus, a life or a potential life – vital to decide whether the developing life has any moral significance in and of itself that would make abortion wrong.

175
Q

Why is the question of whether the moral status of the pre-embryo, embryo or foetus important?

A

Need to establish whether it would be ordinarily acceptable to end their life. Some disagree bc pre-embryo does not have the features of consciousness or rationality so wrong to claim it is a human being. This has led to others suggesting a person comes into being later stages of development – heartbeat detected, pain felt, late as birth.

176
Q

What does NL say about human life and why is this important when determining whether pre-embryo, embryo or foetus can be called a life?

A

Need to establish whether it would be ordinarily acceptable to end their life. Some disagree bc pre-embryo does not have the features of consciousness or rationality so wrong to claim it is a human being. This has led to others suggesting a person comes into being later stages of development – heartbeat detected, pain felt, late as birth.

177
Q

What does the Catholic Church say about the beginning of human life and why do some people disagree with this? What has this led to?

A

Conception – genetic material that will enable a human to develop is present. Some believe a person comes to being at ensoulment – God places the soul into the body creating human life.

178
Q

Explain the idea of ensoulment and what does Aquinas say about this?

A

Aquinas’ understanding was based on limited biological knowledge about who life forms in the womb, which by today’s standards is considered scientifically inaccurate. He argued it happens 40 days from conception for boys and 90 days for girls. Argued that if you hit someone pregnant and they miscarry the baby as a direct result, you are guilty of murder if ensoulment has happened (mentioned in Summa Theologica).

179
Q

What did Aquinas teach prior to ensoulment? What does he conclude about the foetus?

A

Foetus has at first a nutritive soul then a sensitive soul before being given an intellectual soul at ensoulment. Aquinas believed it was possible to draw the conclusion that the foetus is not fully a human before ensoulment – abortion not a moral dilemma prior to ensoulment.

180
Q

Why is Aquinas’ view rejected as incorrect by the Catholic Church?

A

Rejected as incorrect by the catholic church understanding of Aquinas NL - Life begins at conception thus abortion is always completely wrong and sinful.

181
Q

How does Natural Law theory apply to the ethical consideration of abortion?

A

Natural Law theory advocates for the use of God-given reason in ethical judgments, including those concerning abortion. It asserts that abortion violates primary precepts such as the preservation of life and orderly living, leading to the secondary precept of “do not abort.”

182
Q

What primary precepts does abortion contravene according to Natural Law theory?

A

Abortion contravenes primary precepts such as the preservation of life and orderly living, as well as the precept related to reproduction, according to Natural Law theory.

183
Q

How might the virtue of courage be implicated in the context of abortion according to Natural Law theory?

A

In the context of abortion, the virtue of courage may be implicated as it would require courage to continue with an unwanted pregnancy. This aligns with the Natural Law principle of cultivating virtues to guide moral action.

184
Q

Explain the role of the doctrine of double effect in evaluating abortion from a Natural Law perspective.

A

The doctrine of double effect may be invoked to evaluate abortion from a Natural Law perspective. While abortion is generally considered morally wrong due to its violation of primary precepts, the principle of double effect may allow it if the abortion is an unintended side effect of a morally permissible action, such as chemotherapy aimed at preserving life.

Ethics (4 decks)

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