Natural law theory holds that moral and legal norms derive from human nature and reason, discoverable through rational reflection independent of positive law.
Ancient roots in Stoicism. Aquinas (13th century) systematized. Grotius secularized (17th century). Revived by Finnis (New Natural Law).
Aristotle, Stoics, Thomas Aquinas, Hugo Grotius, Germain Grisez, John Finnis.
Moral law grounded in human nature. Natural law discoverable through reason. Unjust law is no law. Basic human goods. Practical reason.
Shaped Catholic moral theology. Influenced Western legal tradition. Contributed to human rights. Relevant to bioethics.
