Developing a personal philosophy of life often involves exploring influential concepts and ideas from great thinkers. One such concept is the idea of natural law, which holds a central place in the philosophy of Thomas Aquinas. While many are aware of its significance, the importance of understanding natural law in depth is often overlooked. Gaining a clear understanding of this concept can greatly impact how we shape and refine our own philosophical views. This article examines the philosophy of Thomas Aquinas, the concept of natural law, and their importance in the broader context of developing a meaningful philosophy of life.
Key features of Thomas Aquinas’s philosophy
Thomas Aquinas’s philosophy is renowned for blending faith and reason in a way that shaped centuries of theological and philosophical thought. One of his key ideas is the concept of natural law, which holds that moral principles are inherent in human nature and can be understood through reason. Aquinas believed that humans are naturally inclined to seek good and avoid evil, and this instinct leads us toward fulfilling God’s will.
Another major feature of Aquinas’s philosophy is his integration of Aristotle’s teachings with Christian theology. He argued that reason and faith complement each other, with reason helping to explain the natural world and faith providing higher truths about God and salvation. This approach allowed Aquinas to create a systematic framework that connected the physical world with spiritual understanding.
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Aquinas also presented the “Five Ways,” which are arguments for the existence of God. These include the idea of a First Cause, meaning everything in the universe has a cause, and this chain of causes leads back to God. He also discussed the existence of an intelligent designer—God—as the explanation for the order and purpose seen in nature.
By emphasizing both human reason and divine revelation, Thomas Aquinas’s philosophy bridges the gap between science and religion, offering an enduring perspective on how the two can coexist harmoniously. His work remains a cornerstone of Western thought, respected for its logical clarity and depth.
What is natural law?
Thomas Aquinas’s view of natural law is rooted in the idea that it is a part of divine law that human beings can understand through reason. He believed that natural law is universal and applies to all people, regardless of their beliefs or culture. According to Aquinas, natural law is based on the notion that everything in nature is ordered towards a purpose. Humans, through their ability to reason, can identify this order and use it to guide their actions.
Aquinas argued that natural law is grounded in the human inclination to do good and avoid evil. For him, acting in alignment with natural law leads to fulfilling the purpose that God has intended for humanity. He viewed it as a moral compass that helps people distinguish between right and wrong by observing the world and using rational thought.
Aquinas emphasized that natural law is unchanging and eternal, as it is derived from divine principles. However, humans’ understanding of it can sometimes fall short due to ignorance or error. Despite this, Aquinas maintained that natural law remains accessible to all, as it is written into the nature of humanity itself, allowing people to discover and align their behaviour with it through careful reflection and reasoning.
This example helps to demonstrate this philosophical perspective. A story often shared to illustrate Thomas Aquinas’s ideas about natural law involves the concept of human beings naturally seeking the good. For instance, Aquinas believed that people are inclined to care for others, particularly their family, because it is part of their natural disposition. Take the act of a parent protecting their child—this behaviour is not mandated by laws or societal rules but stems from an innate understanding of what is right and necessary for life to flourish. Aquinas would see this as a demonstration of natural law at work, as such actions align with the basic good of preserving life. This example highlights how everyday actions, even when not formally governed by external laws, can reflect deeper philosophical principles that guide human behaviour and decision-making.
Challenges to Thomas Aquinas’s view about natural law
Some philosophers object to or reject Thomas Aquinas’s view on natural law for various reasons, often rooted in differences in their understanding of morality, human nature, and the role of divine authority. One major objection comes from those who question the idea of morality being universal or grounded in a natural order. Critics argue that human beliefs and values are shaped by cultural, historical, and societal factors, rather than by an intrinsic natural law that applies to everyone. For these philosophers, morality is more subjective and fluid, making it difficult to defend the existence of one universal standard.
Another key criticism involves the religious foundations tied to natural law. Since Aquinas’s views are deeply influenced by theological principles, critics who adopt a secular worldview reject the connection between morality and a divine source. They argue that ethical systems can and should exist independently of religion. Philosophers from a secular perspective often find it problematic to base a moral framework on assumptions about God’s will or divine intentions, as these assumptions are not universally acknowledged or verifiable.
Some objections also stem from the belief that Aquinas’s reliance on human reason to access natural law is flawed. Skeptics of this idea point out that human reasoning is often limited, biased, and prone to error. They argue that if individuals interpret natural law differently based on their unique perspectives and experiences, then the claim of a universal law loses validity. For these critics, Aquinas’s assumption that human reason can reliably uncover moral truths is overly optimistic.
Lastly, more modern philosophies like utilitarianism and existentialism reject the foundational principles of natural law altogether and offer alternative ways of thinking about ethics. Utilitarians, for example, argue that moral decisions should be based on outcomes that maximize happiness or reduce suffering, rather than adherence to an immutable law. Existentialist thinkers, on the other hand, emphasize individual freedom and responsibility, rejecting the idea of fixed moral rules dictated by nature or higher powers.
By challenging universalism, the role of religion in morality, the limits of human reason, and the relevance of alternative ethical systems, these objections highlight the complexity of philosophical debates surrounding natural law.
Why natural law is important to Thomas Aquinas’s philosophy
These are some of the main reasons why grasping the concept of natural law is essential to comprehending Thomas Aquinas’s philosophy.
- Basis for Morality
The idea of natural law serves as a foundation for understanding morality within philosophical thought. It emphasizes that moral principles are not arbitrary but rather rooted in the natural order of the world. This perspective suggests that right and wrong are not determined solely by societal norms or individual preferences but are instead linked to universal truths inherent in nature. By connecting morality to the natural world, natural law provides a framework for discussing ethical behavior that transcends cultural and historical differences. For Thomas Aquinas, this backdrop helps illustrate how morality can have objective principles derived from reason and observation of the world.
- Connection Between Reason and Ethics
Natural law is significant because it highlights the role of human reason in determining ethical actions. According to this concept, individuals have the ability to use their rational minds to discern proper actions that align with the natural order and purpose of life. This makes understanding natural law important for exploring how philosophy integrates reason into discussions about ethics. Instead of relying solely on external authorities or divine revelation, natural law acknowledges that people can access moral truths through careful thought and logical analysis. This approach reinforces the value of reason as a tool for understanding and living a virtuous life.
- Universal Application
One of the remarkable aspects of natural law is its claim to universality. It asserts that moral principles stemming from the natural order apply to all human beings, regardless of cultural, geographical, or historical differences. This universality makes it an essential concept for exploring how philosophical discussions about ethics and justice can be inclusive of all people. Because natural law points to truths that are timeless and applicable to everyone, it supports ideas of equality and shared human dignity. This idea is particularly important in understanding how philosophical systems aim to address the common good in a way that is relevant to humanity as a whole.
Contrasting Thomas Aquinas’s philosophy with Friedrich Nietzsche’s philosophy
Thomas Aquinas’s view on natural law significantly distinguishes his philosophy from Friedrich Nietzsche’s. Natural law, as advocated by Aquinas, is grounded in the belief that there are objective moral truths and a divine order to the universe. He argued that humans are naturally inclined to seek good and avoid evil, guided by reason and God’s plan. This approach emphasizes fixed moral laws and a structured purpose for human existence.
Nietzsche, on the other hand, rejects the concept of objective morality and divine order. He famously criticized traditional moral systems, including those influenced by religion, which he viewed as restrictive and oppressive. Nietzsche’s philosophy centers on the idea of the “will to power,” where individuals define their own values and meaning in life. He challenged the idea of an absolute moral code, instead advocating for a perspective that allows individuals to transcend societal norms and create personal truths.
The key divergence lies in their views on morality and purpose. While Aquinas sees morality as universal and derived from a higher, divine source, Nietzsche views morality as subjective and something to be shaped by individual will. This contrast reflects a fundamental division between a belief in an ordered, purpose-driven world versus a belief in a world where individuals must construct their own purpose and meaning.
Natural Law, Thomas Aquinas’s philosophy and the meaning of life
Reflecting on Thomas Aquinas’s view about natural law, whether you agree with it or not, holds great practical importance as you pursue a more meaningful life. The essence of engaging with such philosophical ideas lies not in blindly accepting or rejecting them but in fostering a deeper understanding of the principles that guide human behaviour and decision-making. Aquinas’s philosophy invites you to think critically about the values and objectives that shape your actions, urging you to contemplate whether they align with a broader sense of purpose or a moral framework.
This reflection challenges you to slow down and examine the choices you make in your daily life. Are they driven solely by external pressures, fleeting desires, or cultural norms? Or are they rooted in a well-considered understanding of what truly matters to you? By wrestling with these kinds of questions, inspired by Aquinas’s perspective on ethics and the natural order, you are more likely to forge a life guided by core principles that resonate with your personal sense of meaning.
Another vital aspect of engaging with Aquinas’s philosophy is its ability to cultivate self-awareness and intentionality. Thinking about what constitutes a “natural” or “right” way to live encourages introspection. It pushes you to evaluate how your actions impact others and how your own sense of purpose fits within the larger social fabric. This kind of examination has the potential to bring clarity to what kind of person you want to be and what legacy you hope to leave behind.
Finally, reflecting on these philosophical views nurtures humility and growth. By considering perspectives such as Aquinas’s—whether or not they fully align with your own beliefs—you develop a habit of open-mindedness and intellectual curiosity. Both are essential for personal growth and for finding meaningful connections with those who hold diverse viewpoints. Reflecting on these ideas isn’t about rigidly adhering to a specific doctrine but about broadening your horizon and incorporating insights that help you live a fuller, more purpose-driven life. This process, while reflective, has real-world implications, influencing the way you approach relationships, responsibilities, and life’s inevitable challenges.
Further reading
Aquinas, T. (1920). Summa Theologica (Fathers of the English Dominican Province, Trans.). Benziger Bros. (Original work published 1265-1274)
Finnis, J. (1980). Natural Law and Natural Rights. Oxford University Press.
George, R. P. (2008). The Constitution of Rights: Human Dignity and American Law. Clarendon Press.
MacIntyre, A. (1998). Aquinas on Virtue and Law. Cambridge University Press.
Maritain, J. (1944). Moral Philosophy. Scribner’s Sons.
Porter, J. (2005). Nature as Reason. Eerdmans Publishing Company.
Rhodes, J. H. (2003). Innate Law and Practical Reasoning. Routledge.
Scholz, H. (1945). The Meaning of Natural Law. Sheed & Ward.
Westberg, D. (2004). Right Practical Reason. Oxford University Press.