Religion + Morality Flashcards
Basic Definition of Natural Moral Law?
- From Greek and Roman times and the history of it runs deep
- Uses reason and looking at what is ‘natural’ it is possible to discern a series of unchangeable, universal, natural moral laws
- Some see these laws as being independent of religion.
However, others argue that these are given by God.
Describe Aquinas’ Adaption of N.M.L
- The law of right reason and God is the author and judge of this
- Aquinas believed that fundamentally humans should do good and avoid evil and they should avoid being enslaved by non-natural, non-rational desires.
- This natural law exists to assist humans to direct their actions in such a way that they may reach their eternal destiny with God
What were the 5 primary precepts?
- Reproducing
- Self-preservation
- Educating children
- Living in a society
- Worshipping God
What about NML’s Secondary Precepts?
Secondary precepts are based on what we should and shouldn’t do based on the primary ones and are more specific. People shouldn’t masturbate because reproduction is a primary precept with the genitalia’s purpose being this. Also why homosexuality is shunned.
What Christian denomination mostly uses N.M.L?
Catholic Church
Strengths of N.M.L?
- Clear and fixed rules. Moral certainties are attractive.
- The can apply to everyone and are universal, with basic principles evident in all cultures. Allows us to establish universal human rights
- Emphasises reason and provides clear/concrete reasons to be moral
Weaknesses of N.M.L?
- Can be counter-intuitive e.g. it doesn’t make sense to ban contraception in over-populated countries
- Is there really a common natural law? Does ‘good’ and ‘bad’ exist in nature?
- The idea that there is a common human nature may be challenged (e.g. homosexuality, disabilities)
- Aquinas’ underlying assumptions (religious stuff like souls) may be challenged, removing the ethical motivation
What is Divine Command Theory (DCT)?
- God is source of all moral ethics. Whether something is morally good or bad is based on God’s will which are found in holy scriptures like Bible + Qur’an and is encouraged to be followed by scholars like Aquinas
Evaluation of DCT
Advantage = Clear moral framework for how one should act.
Disadvantage = Some scriptures contain contradictions, therefore needing interpretations. - E.g. Old Testament glorified act of revenge yet other passages caution against it.
What is the Euthypro Dilemma?
- Proposed by Socrates + Plato questions whether actions are morally good b/c they’re commanded by God or b/c God commanded actions as they’re good.
- If someone argues the first option they are denying DCT b/c they’re only good as god says. If God says decisions are arbitrary then morality is objective. This means anything could be good if god says so there is no point in following God.
- The 2nd option is just generally denying DCT as it states goodness is determined independently w/out God therefore denying that god is unnecessary for morality.
What did Karl Marx say about religion opposing morality?
Said religion was used to hide + justify the inequality of the world by making the oppressed believe they deserve their oppression
What did Nietzsche say about religion opposing morality?
Think it creates a ‘slave mentality’ for its followers and prevents them from being truly autonomous human beings
What did Russell say about religion opposing morality?
Russell like Marx claims that religion’s focus on ‘personal holiness’ hinders + limits attempts to improve the world and lives of other human beings
Three stances on religion and morality?
Are linked, Separate and Opposed
Outline the Euthypro Dilemma
- Proposed by Socrates+Plato questions whether actions are morally good b/c they’re commanded by God or b/c God commanded actions as they’re good.
- If someone argues the first option they are denying DCT b/c they’re only good as god says. If God says decisions are arbitrary then morality is objective. This means anything could be good if god says so there is no point in following God.
- The 2nd option is just generally denying DCT as it states goodness is determined independently w/out God therefore denying that god is unnecessary for morality.
