Lecture Notes on Thomas Aquinas and Natural Law Theory

Introduction

• Thomas Aquinas: Influential 13th-century Christian monk and philosopher.
• Key question: How can people follow God's moral rules without knowledge of God?
• Aquinas' solution: Natural Law Theory, suggesting God has pre-loaded us with tools to discern what is good.

Natural Law Theory

• Foundation: God wants humans to desire and pursue good things.
• Natural Laws: Systems that sustain life and ensure smooth functioning of the world.
• Basic Goods: Instilled desires designed for the well-being of creatures.

The Seven Basic Goods

1. Self-preservation: Instinct to sustain life.
2. Reproduction: Instinct to create more life, supported by a sex drive.
3. Education of Offspring: Teaching young for survival.
4. Seek God: Instinctual desire to know God.
5. Live in Society: Social nature of humans encourages community living.
6. Avoid Offense: Instinct to maintain harmony within groups.
7. Shun Ignorance: Natural curiosity and desire for knowledge.

Deriving Natural Laws

• Instinct + Reason: Instinct shows basic goods; reason derives natural laws.
• Examples:
  • Valuing life leads to prohibition against killing.
  • Importance of reproduction influences views on birth control and procreation.

Challenges to Natural Law Theory

• Ignorance and Emotion: People violate natural law due to lack of knowledge or emotional overpowering of reason.
• Grounding Problem: Morality is grounded in God, making it unappealing to atheists.

Key Criticisms

• Is-Ought Problem (David Hume): Incorrect to derive 'ought' from 'is'.
  • Survival instincts may lead to immoral actions.
  • Sex drive can fuel immoral behaviors.
  • Questions about the necessity and moral value of reproduction.

Conclusion

• Despite its appeal, Natural Law Theory faces philosophical challenges.
• Next steps: Exploring alternatives to Natural Law Theory (e.g., Immanuel Kant's philosophy).