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Unit One
Natural Law Theory
12
Law
Undergraduate 3
02/11/2014

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Term
what is the basis of natural theory?
Definition
natural law theory claims that morality is the basis of rules being implemented as a law doctrine. all human laws must be consistent with the natural moral law and thus morals set parameters around what's feasible for man made laws
Term
positive
Definition
implemented by human beings, posited
Term
What is natural law theory for man made enforced laws?
Definition
we need decisive reasons to comply with man made enforced laws and these laws need to address our practical standards and be by their nature rational
Term
what does aquinas claims about laws?
Definition
aquinas claims that:
1. laws command and forbid, but only if rational
2. laws contain a coercive element
3. laws must aim at the common good, which is happiness
4. promulgated by "he who takes care of the community"
5. rules govern social behavior to enhance the community as a whole
6. that which is not just is not law at all
Term
what does Aquinas claim about bad laws?
Definition
Aquinas asserts that laws that are not reasonable are not laws at all
Term
why is natural law theory important?
Definition
natural law theory provides a standard, that might not be necessarily attainable, to aspire to. It encourages us to asses our laws on moral grounds so that we may work to improve them
Term
what is the reasoning behind natural law?
Definition
natural law encourages the promotion of human virtue, goodness, and attainment of the common good and enforcing laws that do not further these aims is immoral
Term
why favor natural law?
Definition
natural law separates the rule of law from the rule of might/men to guard against individuals rights being trampled.
Term
what are some problems with natural law?
Definition
natural incorrectly claims that moral laws are self-evident, so the need for another basis of determining which such claims are true is created.
Term
what is the difference between positivists and naturalists on the obligation of obeying law?
Definition
naturalists argue that although law is a has a coercive element and is commanded to the masses by a sovereign, we should obey law because we are in moral agreement with it's provisions, not just because we fear the consequences of disobeying. This idea creates the concept of separation between rule of gangs and law.
Term
What is the significance of distinguishing between the rule of law and the rule of gangs?
Definition
when we discriminate between these powers, we often grant a just government a form of legitimacy based in our social contract and expectations that the law's function is to prevent and punish the violation of our individual moral rights. This interpretation of the law's function makes a moral dimension of law inescapable
Term
what are the dangers of immoral laws in regards to their effectiveness and reception in society?
Definition
if rules are amoral, they will likely lose the respect of the people and cause them to critically examine and question the government on these grounds.
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