Some Observations on Natural Law

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Published: Dec 1, 2013
DOI: https://doi.org/10.13153/diam.38.2013.543
Keywords:
natural law Aquinas is-ought distinction

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Michael Pakaluk
Ave Maria University

Abstract

The paper offers some observations with a view to correcting ostensible misunderstandings of the so-called New Natural Law (“NNL”) theory, concluding that the NNL theory is unworkable and unsustainable, even on its own terms. It is argued that the NNL theory is based on fundamental misunderstandings of the nature of necessity in Aquinas; the nature of propositions which are “known in themselves” (per se nota); and the nature of fundamental practical reasoning. It is argued that, where the NNL theory differs from that of Aquinas, the latter provides a better framework for the development of accounts of natural law today.

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How to Cite
Pakaluk, Michael. 2013. “Some Observations on Natural Law”. Diametros, no. 38 (December):153-75. https://doi.org/10.13153/diam.38.2013.543.
Issue
No. 38 (2013)
Section
Special topic – THE MORAL PHILOSOPHY OF THOMAS AQUINAS AND CONTEMPORARY PRACTICAL ETHICS

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Author Biography

Michael Pakaluk, Ave Maria University

Michael Pakaluk, PhD Ave Maria University Department of Philosophy Ave Maria, FL 34142 USA e-mail: mpakaluk@gmail.com
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References

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