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Thomas Aquinas developed Natural Law
Its an absolute theory of ethics which is rooted in our human nature to
search for genuine happiness and fulfilment.
Aquinas considered that by using REASON to reflect on our human nature,
we could discover our specific purpose, then work out how to achieve it
It's a deontological approach, meaning it considers the act itself…read more

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Aquinas believed each law depends on the
authority of the level above, with God being the
ultimate source of all authority.
ETERNAL LAW ­ the mind of God which humans
cannot know. Contained within are the laws which
govern the universe and control the life cycle.
ETERNAL LAW DIVINE LAW ­ law of God revealed through the Bible,
which Christians call the `word of God'.
NATURAL LAW ­ everyone has a natural sense `that
DIVINE LAW good is to be done and evil avoided' which some call
human nature. Its what directs our conscience and
with reason will lead to the right outcome.
NATURAL LAW HUMAN LAW ­ these are everyday rules that govern
our lives, e.g. legal system.
HUMAN LAW…read more

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Aquinas believed everyone has a sense of Natural Law within them, which
inclines them towards perfection, seeking union with God
Things go wrong when a person becomes misguided in their judgement
either because their reasoning is faulty or they have misunderstood the
divine law, they may think something is good when it isn't really
Leading to an APPARENT GOOD
Reason tells us what the right thing to do is, showing the REAL GOOD…read more

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The primary precepts ­
Preservation of life (possible secondary precept: do not switch off life support
Reproduction (possible secondary precept: contraception is wrong)
Educating the young (possible secondary precept: free education)
Living peacefully in society (possible secondary precept: community
Worshipping God (possible secondary precepts: attend church)…read more

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Because its seen as absolutist, it provides clear guidance to moral rules
Flexible enough to accommodate different cultures because the
secondary precepts are reasoned by society, who can interpret the
primary precepts in accordance with their time and practices
Offers a universal moral code because most people believe in preserving
life, building a good society and educating the young etc.
As its based on reason, its open to everyone, religious or not…read more

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