Ethics mid 3
VARIETIES OF LAW
DIVINE LAW
ETERNAL LAW
HUMAN LAW
NATURAL LAW
The highest form of law; it represents God's divine wisdom that governs everything in the universe.
Eternal Law
Therefore, by looking at our human nature at the natural inclinations given to us by God, we can determine the rule and measure that should be directing our acts.
natural Law
how humans participate in Eternal Law using reason.
Natural Law
is specific and more concrete to actual operation of human acts.
human law
These laws must be based on Natural Law to be valid
human Law
Laws made by governments to organize society
human law
this Law is general
Natural law
These laws guide people to a higher purpose (supernatural end
DIVINE LAW
Laws that come from divine revelation (Scripture
DIVINE LAW
Everything in nature follows this law automatically
ETERNAL LAW
Example: The Earth orbits the sun because it follows natural laws
Eternal law
Example: Animals instinctively protect themselves from predators.
Eternal law
Ex: Stealing is a crime because it goes against fairness and justice
Human Law
Ex: Murder is illegal because it violates Natural Law (which says life should be preserved
Human law
it is the natural inclination of human beings to eternal law as they participate on it.
NATURAL LAW
there is a divine wisdom that directs our acts
ETERNAL LAW
instructions coming from divine revelations (gospels, Ten Commandments
DIVINE LAW
the more specific or more concrete to human acts.
HUMAN LAW
three natural inclinations
Self-Preservation
Reproduction and Care for Offspring
Seeking Truth and Living in Society
Ex N: Humans avoid dangerous situations (
Self-Preservation
Ex N: A cat runs away from danger
Self-Preservation
Ex N: A Makahiya plant folds up when touched to protect itself
Self-Preservation
All beings have an instinct to protect their own life.
Self-Preservation
Sexuality and family life are part of our natural inclinations
Reproduction and Care for Offspring
Humans, like animals, have a natural desire to reproduce and care for children.
Reproduction and Care for Offspring
Parents instinctively protect their children from harm
Reproduction and Care for Offspring
Humans are different from animals because we have reason and a desire for truth and community.
Seeking Truth and Living in Society
Living in harmony:
We try to avoid lying, cheating, or harming others because we want to be part of society.
Seeking Truth and Living in Society
Avoiding ignorance:
People naturally want to learn new things(e.g.,studying, asking questions
Seeking Truth and Living in Society
Ethical Applications of Natural Law
Murder is Wrong
Abortion is Debated
Deception is Wrong