Natural law and universal ethics. Approach to the document of the International Theological Commission

Abstract

At the same time that talk of “global ethics” or universal ethics it is frequent, and even at times seems obvious, the traditional reference to natural law has declined to almost its disuse, except in limited circles, especially the Catholic ecclesiastical areas, and even in all these. Although today all stakeholders concerned recognize that the desire and the search for a moral basis shared by some and by others, beyond beliefs and convictions, i.e. what unites human beings, ensure and can promote a fair coexistence, the question is still very relevant, and even urgent. The concept of “natural law”, which referred to an important document of the international theological Commission from six years ago, entitled precisely “in search of a universal ethics”, allows the authors of the study to delve into the discussion of one of the foundations of the social morality of Christian inspiration, which is of great importance to integrate the most current problems: globalization and interdependence, technological and cultural changes and interreligious dialogue. Natural law is a rich concept, although with quite a few non–logic elements that have been weakening it and analyzing it, we could almost say “denaturing”. We aren’t already just face the tension between universality and particularity, but another strain. The fundamental consensus and emerging developments. Walking in search of shared principles and values is still urgent and necessary, but this way will succeed only if part of a solid agreement and a common ethical language, not only open to dialogue, but to change to the complementary otherness of others. The study summarizes the history of the law of nature, as well as your website in the Catholic moral teaching (paragraphs third and fourth), to enter in the following sections regarding the conceptual between universal reason and natural law (fifth paragraph) and on the question of the conversion principles in normative precepts (sixth paragraph). In the seventh paragraph the authors address the unavoidable question of intercultural and inter–religious dialogue, to conclude in the next section with a reflection on the reference to the truth that will help determine the precepts of natural law and natural law...