Natural Moral Law & Conscience PDF

OBJECTIVES The students should be able to: a. define principles of natural moral law b. prove that conscience formed by natural law serves as guide to right decision-making and action c. explain the two principles of natural moral law d. identify the indicators of acts that foll...

OBJECTIVES The students should be able to: a. define principles of natural moral law b. prove that conscience formed by natural law serves as guide to right decision-making and action c. explain the two principles of natural moral law d. identify the indicators of acts that follow natural moral law LESSON ESSENTIAL QUESTION How do we know whether our action is right or wrong? NATURAL MORAL LAW AND CONSCIENCE LESSON NO. 2 EsP  Natural Moral Law Natural law is an ethical theory that claims that humans are born with a certain moral compass that guides behaviors. These inherited rules essentially distinguish the "rights" and "wrongs" in life. Under natural law, everyone is afforded the same rights, such as the right to live and the right  Conscience is a fundamental aspect of human psychology and morality. It refers to an internal sense of right and wrong that guides an individual's thoughts, actions, and decisions. Conscience helps people evaluate their behavior, make ethical choices, and feel a sense of moral responsibility. NATURAL MORAL LAW, RELATIONSHIP, AND SERVICE  Natural Moral Law and Relationships 1.1. Respect and Dignity:  Principle: One of the core principles of Natural Moral Law is the respect for human dignity, which implies that every person has inherent worth.  Application in Relationships: This principle requires treating others with respect and valuing their intrinsic worth. In relationships, this means acting with integrity, honesty, and fairness, and avoiding harm.  1.2. Justice and Fairness:  Principle: Natural Moral Law emphasizes justice and fairness as fundamental ethical norms.  Application in Relationships: In personal and professional relationships, this translates to ensuring equitable treatment, honoring commitments, and resolving conflicts fairly. It involves respecting others’ rights and addressing grievances in a just manner.  1.3. Love and Compassion:  Principle: Compassion and love are aligned with the natural inclination towards positive social interactions.  Application in Relationships: Genuine care and empathy for others are essential. This includes supporting, comforting, and helping those in need, thereby fostering healthy, supportive, and loving relationships.  Truthfulness and Honesty:  Principle: Truthfulness is a core component of moral integrity within Natural Moral Law.  Application in Relationships: Being truthful and honest strengthens trust and reliability in relationships. It involves clear communication, transparency, and adherence to promises.  Natural Moral Law and Service  2.1. Service to Others:  Principle: Natural Moral Law highlights the importance of contributing to the common good, which often involves serving others.  Application in Service: Engaging in service is a way to apply the principles of Natural Moral Law by addressing needs and contributing positively to society. Service can take various forms, including volunteering, charitable work, and supporting community initiatives. 2.2. Moral Duty:  Principle: Service is viewed as a moral duty under Natural Moral Law, reflecting the ethical obligation to act in ways that benefit others and promote well- being.  Application in Service: Individuals are encouraged to use their skills, resources, and time to help those in need. This includes acts of kindness, social justice efforts, and participation in initiatives that aim to alleviate suffering and promote the common good. 2.3 Selflessness and Altruism:  Principle: Altruism, or acting for the benefit of others without expecting personal gain, is in harmony with the principles of Natural Moral Law.  Application in Service: True service is characterized by selflessness and a genuine desire to make a positive impact on others’ lives. This involves prioritizing others' needs and well-being over personal interests. The two principles of natural moral law 1. Do good 2. Avoid evil  1. Do good 2. Avoid evil “Wa ta’aawanuu ‘alal Birri Wat taqwaa wa ta’aawanuu ‘alal ithmi wal ‘udwaan” “and (help one another) in doing righteousness and piety, but do not cooperate in sin and aggression” Surah Al-Maida verse No. 2  How can we do good and avoid evil? Conscience is a natural facility of our reason that does three things: 1. Reminds us always to do good and avoid evil. 2. Makes a judgment about the good and evil of particular choices in a specific situation. 3. Bears witness after the fact to the good or evil that we have done (i.e. having a guilty conscience).