Natural Law Theory

Divine Command Theory is a popular theory that grounds morality in the existence of God. It has been dominant in contemporary times for the last hundred years. However, natural law theory was more prevalent historically in the history of philosophy.

Natural Law Theory is based on an Aristotelian view of nature, where the universe possesses a rational order with value and purpose built into it. It explains that everything in nature has a telos, an end or goal, and describes how things ought to be.

Natural Law Theory applies a teleological perspective to ethics, where natural laws not only describe how things are but also how they ought to be. It emphasizes that natural and unnatural acts align with what should or should not take place.

Aristotle's influence on the theory is significant, as he believed that the universe operates according to a rational order with inherent value and purpose. The theory incorporates the idea of a telos, indicating that everything has a specific purpose.

Theistic philosophers, such as Thomas Aquinas, added God to the explanation provided by Aristotle. They believed that natural laws, which describe how things ought to be, are influenced by God's will and design.

Natural Law Theory suggests that one can understand what is right or wrong through the natural laws of human conduct. By following the way that humans are designed to function, individuals can determine the right course of action based on their nature.

The theory faces challenges from modern scientific views that do not support the idea of a telos or inherent purpose in nature. Many scientists reject the notion that things have a predetermined end or goal, posing a significant problem for natural law theory.

The theory poses questions about the necessity of God in explaining the teleology of humans. It explores the balance between moral naturalism, which provides a way to ground morality without reference to God, and the integration of God in understanding human nature and purpose.