Reasons why natural law is helpful for making moral decisions
Provides a framework for making moral decisions rather than leaving morality open to subjectiveness
It is universal and accessible to all
It makes sense and we as humans want to protect those who are vulnerable and we know that education Is essential for the good of society
It supports human rights as it aims to protect and benefit all people equally
Reasons why natural law is unhelpful
Aquinas' precepts require a belief in God
Ignores the complex nature of human beings and assumes all strive for the same end
Some argue that it is out of date and ignore what is now socially acceptable – e.g. homosexual relationships and same-sex marriage
The idea that humans strive for good – e.g. the protection of life, the education of children, the continuation of the human species
The idea that humans do not strive for good
Hobbes argues that human nature is dangerous: that humans strive to get things they want for themselves and do not consider others. E.g. Humans can be selfish
We cannot be striving for good because our collective actions are damaging nature itself. E.g. deforestation and pollution
