In the table below are the strengths and weaknesses of Natural Law. Please find underneath it a show video on the same topic.
Strengths |
Weaknesses |
1. There is emphasis on innate human reason which is a positive because unlike emotions reason does not change. It also means the theory is universal and can attract a large number of supporters. |
1. Natural Law finds it difficult to relate to complex decision to basic principles in practice e.g. should more money be spent on hospitals or schools? |
2. Clear-cut approach to morality and establishes common rules. |
2. It commits a Naturalistic Fallacy according to G.E.Moore. One cannot derive an ought from an is i.e. is we assume God created a moral law is a fact or that we have a natural inclination to care for others as a fact- this does not we ought to follow the moral law or care for others. |
3. The basic principles of preserving human life, reproduction, learning and living in a society are common in all cultures hence Natural Law is a reasonable theory. |
3. Natural Law is based on five assumptions, the primary one being that humans and the world in general has a purpose, however, modern science can be used to show why this isn’t the case. |
4. Natural Law does not just dictate what should be done it goes beyond that, like Virtue Ethics, it concentrates on human character and virtues. |
4. Neilsen uses cultural relativism to question Natural Law and the belief in one common law. |
5. Natural Law relies on practical wisdom as well as reason including the body, some emotions and passions sometimes. |
5. Baron says that relying too much on reason is bad because this leads to corruption as human nature is corrupt. He believers it is better to follow scripture and revelation. |
6. All things required for happiness e.g. health, friendship etc are morally good and can be achieved through Natural Law. |
6. It is difficult to work out the primary purpose of everything e.g. is the primary purpose of sex to procreate or enhance a relationship – the clitoris provides evidence that the sole purpose of sex is not just to have children. |
7. It is useful for the issues where the Bible is silent e.g. IVF |
7. Some Catholic Scholars believe Natural Law is not enough on its own to be a true Catholic- Church teaching and revelation are of utmost interest too! |
8. One cannot rely on predicting consequences because often we are wrong so Natural Law provides a good alternative to consequentialist theories |
8. Vardy and Grosh criticize the way Aquinas works from general principles to lesser purposes and sees his view of human nature as unholistic and simplistic. |
9. It puts a high premium on life and protects the vulnerable. |
9. It is self-contradictory you cannot say that clear-cut rules are provided and then uses casuistry to allow room fro flexibility. |
10. It upholds human rights and has been included in the UN declaration of human rights. |
10. What is more important actions or consequences? e.g. if a man with an axe asked you where your friend was surely it is more moral to lie and save the life of your friend? |
11. Casuistry allow it benefit from flexibility as well as adhering to benefits from being absolutist. |