Natural moral law provides a framework for evaluating the ethics... Show more
English Literature
Biology
SociologySign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Catholic Church's Stance on Abortion
This page delves deeper into the Catholic Church's position on abortion, exploring the application of natural moral law and the principle of double effect in specific scenarios.
Principle of Double Effect:
- Allows for indirect abortion in limited circumstances
- Example: A woman with a life-threatening pregnancy
Example: A woman with a cancerous uterus may undergo a hysterectomy to save her life, even if it results in the death of the fetus. This is permissible because:
- Removing a cancerous uterus is morally good
- The fetus' death is an unintended side-effect
- The fetus' death is not the means of saving the woman's life
- Saving the woman's life is at least as morally significant as saving the fetus
Biblical Basis: The Catholic stance on abortion is rooted in the sanctity of life principle derived from Genesis 1:26-27, which states that human life is sacred as it is created in God's image.
Highlight: The Catholic Church maintains a strict stance on abortion, allowing no exceptions even in cases of rape or incest.
Vocabulary: Sanctity of Life - the principle that human life is sacred and inviolable, often used in religious and ethical arguments against abortion.
Definition: Principle of Double Effect - a moral principle that distinguishes between the intended and unintended consequences of an action, used to evaluate the ethics of actions that have both good and bad effects.
Applying Natural Moral Law to Abortion
Natural moral law offers a philosophical and theological approach to analyzing the ethics of abortion, particularly from a Catholic perspective. This page examines Aquinas' writings on fetal development and applies natural law principles to the abortion debate.
Aquinas' Views on Fetal Development:
- Believed a human person with a rational soul is present 60-80 days after conception
- Opposed abortion after this point, considering it homicide
Quote: "He that strikes a woman with child does something unlawful: wherefore if there results the death either of the woman or of the animated foetus, he will not be excused from homicide, especially seeing that death is the natural result of such a blow."
Applying Primary Precepts: Abortion at any stage violates all five tests of Aquinas' natural moral law:
- Violates the principle of defending innocent life (the fetus)
- Violates the precept of worshipping God by destroying His creation
Highlight: The Catholic Church reinforces natural moral law by forbidding abortion at any stage, except in rare cases through the principle of double effect.
Vocabulary: Primary Precepts - fundamental moral principles in natural law theory that guide ethical decision-making.
Definition: Natural Moral Law - an ethical theory that posits the existence of universal moral principles derived from reason and human nature.
We thought you’d never ask...
What is the Knowunity AI companion?
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
Where can I download the Knowunity app?
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
Is Knowunity really free of charge?
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
Most popular content: Natural Law Theory
Most popular content in Religious Studies
Most popular content
Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.
Students love us — and so will you.
4.9/5
App Store
4.8/5
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
What is Natural Law and Abortion: A Simple Essay
Natural moral law provides a framework for evaluating the ethics of abortion from a Catholic perspective. This summary examines Aquinas' views on fetal development, applies natural law principles to abortion, and outlines the Catholic Church's stance based on the sanctity... Show more
Catholic Church's Stance on Abortion
This page delves deeper into the Catholic Church's position on abortion, exploring the application of natural moral law and the principle of double effect in specific scenarios.
Principle of Double Effect:
- Allows for indirect abortion in limited circumstances
- Example: A woman with a life-threatening pregnancy
Example: A woman with a cancerous uterus may undergo a hysterectomy to save her life, even if it results in the death of the fetus. This is permissible because:
- Removing a cancerous uterus is morally good
- The fetus' death is an unintended side-effect
- The fetus' death is not the means of saving the woman's life
- Saving the woman's life is at least as morally significant as saving the fetus
Biblical Basis: The Catholic stance on abortion is rooted in the sanctity of life principle derived from Genesis 1:26-27, which states that human life is sacred as it is created in God's image.
Highlight: The Catholic Church maintains a strict stance on abortion, allowing no exceptions even in cases of rape or incest.
Vocabulary: Sanctity of Life - the principle that human life is sacred and inviolable, often used in religious and ethical arguments against abortion.
Definition: Principle of Double Effect - a moral principle that distinguishes between the intended and unintended consequences of an action, used to evaluate the ethics of actions that have both good and bad effects.
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Applying Natural Moral Law to Abortion
Natural moral law offers a philosophical and theological approach to analyzing the ethics of abortion, particularly from a Catholic perspective. This page examines Aquinas' writings on fetal development and applies natural law principles to the abortion debate.
Aquinas' Views on Fetal Development:
- Believed a human person with a rational soul is present 60-80 days after conception
- Opposed abortion after this point, considering it homicide
Quote: "He that strikes a woman with child does something unlawful: wherefore if there results the death either of the woman or of the animated foetus, he will not be excused from homicide, especially seeing that death is the natural result of such a blow."
Applying Primary Precepts: Abortion at any stage violates all five tests of Aquinas' natural moral law:
- Violates the principle of defending innocent life (the fetus)
- Violates the precept of worshipping God by destroying His creation
Highlight: The Catholic Church reinforces natural moral law by forbidding abortion at any stage, except in rare cases through the principle of double effect.
Vocabulary: Primary Precepts - fundamental moral principles in natural law theory that guide ethical decision-making.
Definition: Natural Moral Law - an ethical theory that posits the existence of universal moral principles derived from reason and human nature.
We thought you’d never ask...
What is the Knowunity AI companion?
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
Where can I download the Knowunity app?
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
Is Knowunity really free of charge?
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
12
Smart Tools NEW
Transform this note into: ✓ 50+ Practice Questions ✓ Interactive Flashcards ✓ Full Mock Exam ✓ Essay Outlines
Mock Exam
Quiz
Flashcards
Essay
Similar content
Utilitarianism vs. Kantian Ethics
Explore the key concepts of Utilitarianism and Kantian Ethics, focusing on the principles of Act and Rule Utilitarianism as proposed by Bentham and Mill, and the Categorical Imperative by Kant. This summary highlights the strengths and weaknesses of each ethical theory, their implications for moral decision-making, and the significance of pleasure and duty in ethical considerations. Ideal for OCR Philosophy and Ethics students.
Religious Studies12
Evaluating Kantian Ethics
Explore critical evaluations of Kantian ethics, focusing on its absolutist nature, the role of duty, and its applicability in moral decision-making. This summary addresses key concepts such as the categorical imperative, human dignity, and the challenges of conflicting duties. Ideal for students studying moral philosophy and deontological ethics.
Religious Studies12
Kantian Ethics Explained
Explore the core principles of Kantian ethics, including the concepts of good will, categorical and hypothetical imperatives, and the importance of duty. This summary highlights Kant's views on morality, human dignity, and the role of reason in ethical decision-making. Ideal for students studying deontological ethics and moral philosophy.
Religious Studies12
Kantian Ethics Explained
Explore the core principles of Kantian ethics, including the Hypothetical and Categorical Imperatives, and Kant's views on morality, duty, and the highest good. This summary covers key concepts such as deontological ethics, moral law, and the implications of treating individuals as ends in themselves. Ideal for students seeking a clear understanding of Kant's ethical framework.
Religious Studies12
Utilitarianism: A Critical Analysis
Explore a comprehensive A-level essay on utilitarianism, examining both act and rule utilitarianism, their strengths and weaknesses, and their implications for moral decision-making. This analysis includes critiques from philosophers like Bentham and Williams, and discusses the relevance of utilitarianism in contemporary ethical discussions. Ideal for students studying ethical theories and seeking to understand the complexities of utilitarian thought.
Religious Studies12
Understanding Utilitarianism
Explore the key concepts of utilitarianism, including act and rule utilitarianism, hedonism, and the ethical implications of consequentialism. This summary provides insights into how actions are evaluated based on their outcomes and the pursuit of happiness for the greatest number. Ideal for students studying moral philosophy and ethical theories.
Religious StudiesS4
Most popular content: Natural Law Theory
Most popular content in Religious Studies
Most popular content
Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.
Students love us — and so will you.
4.9/5
App Store
4.8/5
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user