Module 4 Flashcards
What is the basic idea in natural law ethics according to St. Thomas Aquinas?
“Reason” is the source of the moral law, directing us toward the “Good.”
Who said this?
"”Reason” is the source of the moral law, directing us toward the “Good.””
St. Thomas Aquinas
What is the basic moral truth according to Aquinas?
“To do good and avoid evil.”
How does Aquinas view morality or ethics?
Morality is not an arbitrary set of rules; it is based on human nature itself.
What does Aquinas say about the natural law?
“The natural law is promulgated by the very fact that God instilled it into men’s minds so as to be known by them naturally.”
What tools has God provided humans to know what is good?
God has pre-loaded us with the tools to discover and desire what is good.
What do we naturally move toward according to Aquinas?
Fundamental values or goods.
What are the four basic goods identified by Aquinas?
- The preservation of life
- The propagation of species (Procreation)
- Social life
- The search for truth (Knowledge)
What basic natural obligations do rational beings have?
- Protect our lives and health
- Propagate the species
- Seek truth
What is the role of human laws in society according to Aquinas?
Human laws guide community behavior and should align with natural law.
What are the Four Principles of Double Effect?
- The action intended must be good in itself.
- The good effect must follow the action at least as immediately as the evil effect.
- The foreseen evil effect should not be intended but merely permitted.
- There must be a proportionate reason for allowing the evil effect to occur.
What must all four principles of the Double Effect satisfy for an action to be considered morally right?
All four principles must be satisfied.
What does Aquinas assert about the nature of law?
Law is fundamentally about reason, directing our actions toward ultimate ends.
Who said this?
“Law is fundamentally about reason, directing our actions toward ultimate ends.”
St. Thomas Aquinas
How has God endowed humans regarding morality?
God has created all humans with the capacity to recognize morality and discern good from evil.
What are the four kinds of law distinguished by Aquinas?
- Eternal Law
- Natural Law
- Human Law
- Divine Law
What is Eternal Law
Eternal Law
The specific statutes of governments created by humans to implement natural law.
Human Law
Revealed through Scripture, ensuring we know what to do to fulfill our natural and supernatural ends.
Divine Law
How does Aquinas describe the relationship between natural law and human nature?
Human nature and natural law are products of God’s wisdom or reason.
