Introduction

Question 1

What is natural law ethics based on?

Answer 1

Natural law ethics is based on Aristotle’s concept of telos, suggesting that everything has a nature directing it towards a particular end goal.

Question 2

How did Aquinas contribute to natural law ethics?

Answer 2

Aquinas Christianized the idea of telos, adding that it is the Christian God who determines the telos according to His omnibenevolent plan for the universe.

Question 3

What does Christian ethics entail?

Answer 3

Christian ethics is most associated with the commands and precepts found in the Bible. Aquinas’ contribution was to argue that telos is also a source of Christian moral principles.

Question 4

What role does human nature play in natural law ethics?

Answer 4

Human nature has the God-given ability to reason, which comes with the ability both to intuitively know primary moral precepts and to apply them to moral situations and actions.

Question 5

Why is following natural law considered essential?

Answer 5

Following natural law is considered an essential element of living a moral life according to Aquinas, as it aligns with the telos set by God and enables individuals to act in accordance with moral principles.