IT-412 Cyber Law and Ethics
Module 2-2 Short Paper: A Moral Theory
Jason Popejoy
Southern New Hampshire University
The Theory I chose to explore is the New Natural Law theory. This theory, developed by
John Finnis and Germain Grisez, builds upon the natural law theory found in the philosophy of
Thomas Aquinas. Natural law states humans possess undeniable rights, moral values, and
responsibilities that are deep-rooted in human nature. Natural law theory is based on the idea that
natural laws represent universal concepts and are not based on culture or its customs (Corporate
Finance Institute, 2021). Natural law includes the idea that we humans recognize the difference
between right and wrong, and that by doing good we are achieving what is intelligibly
worthwhile.
Although imperative changes were made where demanded by the complexity of
presentday moral problems, the primary ideas proposed in the new natural law theory are
basically the same. These imperative changes included intermediate principles that specify the
primary moral principles. These were considered modes of responsibility by Grisez (Grama &
Spinello, 2014). The modes of responsibility include the Golden Rule which states, "for a will
marked by egoism or partiality cannot be open to integral human fulfillment" (Grama &
Spinello, 2014).
One significant weakness of the new natural law theory is it builds off of the original
natural law theory developed by Thomas Aquinas. Therefore, it has many of the same advantages
and disadvantages. Both theories provide clear-cut, rational rules and morals that most people
follow, but these theories do not consider situations and the consequences of actions. The
theories are based on the ability of human beings to reason, making them universally accepted.
Although not everyone considers moral choices based on reason. Ultimately, the natural laws are
simple to follow and are based on cardinal and theological virtues. Although not everyone
believes in a higher power or bases moral choices on reason. Many people question the very idea
of a universal human nature.
Natural law includes the idea that human beings inherently understand the difference
between "Right" and "wrong." These moral and universal standards are inherent in humankind.
They are said to be ancient, dating back to the time of Plato and Aristotle. Humans are not taught
natural law. It is believed to be discovered through reason and by making good and rational
decisions (corporate Finance Institute, 2021). Today, the natural law theory and in extension the
new natural law theory is applied to moral, political, and ethical systems. It plays a large role in
the history of political and philosophical theory and is used to understand and talk about human
nature (Corporate Finance Institute, 2021). Although Natural Law applies primarily to ethics and
philosophy, it is also utilized extensively in theoretical economics.
The new natural law theory gives us a different vantage point from which to view and
assess ethical conundrums in cyberspace (Grama & Spinello, 2014). For instance, someone on
the internet hacking into a business for personal gain is morally wrong. The natura