Maths
Chemistry
Biology
English Language
History
Responding to change (a2 only)
Infection and response
Homeostasis and response
Energy transfers (a2 only)
Cell biology
Organisms respond to changes in their internal and external environments (a-level only)
Biological molecules
Organisation
Substance exchange
Bioenergetics
Genetic information & variation
Inheritance, variation and evolution
Genetics & ecosystems (a2 only)
Ecology
Cells
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Britain & the wider world: 1745 -1901
1l the quest for political stability: germany, 1871-1991
The cold war
Inter-war germany
Medieval period: 1066 -1509
2d religious conflict and the church in england, c1529-c1570
2o democracy and nazism: germany, 1918-1945
1f industrialisation and the people: britain, c1783-1885
1c the tudors: england, 1485-1603
2m wars and welfare: britain in transition, 1906-1957
World war two & the holocaust
2n revolution and dictatorship: russia, 1917-1953
2s the making of modern britain, 1951-2007
World war one
Britain: 1509 -1745
Show all topics
Religious Studies
12 Dec 2025
265
2 pages
Aleksandra Golowska @hola_soy_ola
Natural Law theory is a moral framework that bases ethical decisions on what is "natural" or aligned with... Show more
Natural Law offers several compelling advantages as an ethical framework. Being based on reason means it's accessible to anyone capable of rational thought, not just religious believers. The theory focuses on our search for happiness and fulfilment, which resonates with most people's intuitive understanding of life's purpose.
One significant strength is that Natural Law provides an absolute moral framework through its Primary Precepts, establishing universal rules that apply equally to everyone. This makes it potentially simpler to address ethical dilemmas since decisions aren't merely based on personal opinion but on deeper principles about human nature.
However, Natural Law faces several practical challenges. Its general rules can be difficult to apply to specific, complex situations. When rigidly applied, it sometimes leads to questionable conclusions - like suggesting infertile couples shouldn't have sex because it can't lead to procreation.
Think about it If human nature evolves over time (as science suggests), how can Natural Law claim to be based on unchanging principles?
Philosophical criticisms come from various quarters. Richard Dawkins argues everything can be explained through evolution without divine governance. Theologian Karl Barth suggests human reason is fallible and we should rely on scripture instead. Critics like Kai Nielsen point out that Natural Law fails to account for variations in human nature across different cultures and individuals.
The Naturalistic Fallacy presents a fundamental challenge to Natural Law theory. This principle states that you cannot derive moral values (what ought to be) simply from facts about nature (what is). Just because something exists in human nature doesn't automatically give it moral authority - especially for those who don't believe in a moral creator.
When evaluating Natural Law, several possible conclusions emerge. Some might argue it's the definitive moral theory that defines all ethical action, while others might see it as making assumptions that cannot be conclusively proven. Whether its strengths outweigh its weaknesses (or vice versa) remains a matter of debate.
Remember Every ethical theory has limitations - the question is whether Natural Law's foundations are strong enough to overcome its critics.
Natural Law could also be viewed as just one ethical system among many, with equal validity to other approaches. Or, if you find its foundations problematic and its applications inconsistent, you might conclude the theory is fundamentally flawed. Your assessment will depend on how convincing you find its basic premises about human nature and reason.
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.
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
1
Smart Tools NEW
Transform this note into: ✓ 50+ Practice Questions ✓ Interactive Flashcards ✓ Full Mock Exam ✓ Essay Outlines
Explore the key concepts of Natural Moral Law, including its foundations in Aquinas' philosophy, the Four Tiers of Law, and the Doctrine of Double Effect. This summary provides a comprehensive overview for A-Level Philosophy and Ethics students, highlighting strengths, criticisms, and the role of reason in moral decision-making.
Religious StudiesExplore key ethical theories including Situation Ethics, Utilitarianism, and the principles of John Stuart Mill and Jeremy Bentham. This presentation delves into the application of these theories to contemporary issues such as relationships, animal testing, and nuclear deterrence, emphasizing the balance between individual freedom and societal norms. Ideal for WJEC Ethics students seeking a comprehensive understanding of ethical frameworks.
Religious StudiesExplore the inadequacies of Natural Moral Law as an ethical theory in this detailed essay. Analyze Aquinas' arguments, criticisms from Hume and Moore, and the implications of divine command theory. This essay provides a comprehensive examination of moral philosophy, focusing on the relevance of natural law in contemporary ethical discussions.
Religious StudiesExplore the key concepts of ethical naturalism, including the cognitive and non-cognitive approaches to morality, the role of happiness in ethical evaluations, and the implications of moral objectivism. This summary provides insights into the strengths and weaknesses of naturalistic theories, featuring contributions from philosophers like Bradley, Foot, Kropotkin, and Aristotle. Ideal for students studying moral philosophy and ethical theories.
Religious StudiesExplore Aquinas' Four Tiers of Law, including Eternal, Divine, Natural, and Human Law. This summary delves into the strengths and weaknesses of Natural Law, its connection to moral reasoning, and Aristotle's concept of telos. Ideal for students of moral philosophy and ethics, this resource provides a comprehensive overview of key concepts and their implications for understanding human purpose and law.
Religious StudiesExplore the principles of Situation Ethics, a moral framework that prioritizes love and context over rigid rules. This summary covers key concepts such as antinomianism, legalism, and the strengths and weaknesses of Fletcher's approach to moral decision-making. Ideal for A-Level students studying ethical theories, including discussions on abortion and euthanasia.
Religious StudiesApp Store
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
Aleksandra Golowska
@hola_soy_ola
Natural Law theory is a moral framework that bases ethical decisions on what is "natural" or aligned with human nature. This ethical system, particularly developed by Thomas Aquinas, suggests that by using our reason we can discover universal moral principles... Show more
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Natural Law offers several compelling advantages as an ethical framework. Being based on reason means it's accessible to anyone capable of rational thought, not just religious believers. The theory focuses on our search for happiness and fulfilment, which resonates with most people's intuitive understanding of life's purpose.
One significant strength is that Natural Law provides an absolute moral framework through its Primary Precepts, establishing universal rules that apply equally to everyone. This makes it potentially simpler to address ethical dilemmas since decisions aren't merely based on personal opinion but on deeper principles about human nature.
However, Natural Law faces several practical challenges. Its general rules can be difficult to apply to specific, complex situations. When rigidly applied, it sometimes leads to questionable conclusions - like suggesting infertile couples shouldn't have sex because it can't lead to procreation.
Think about it: If human nature evolves over time (as science suggests), how can Natural Law claim to be based on unchanging principles?
Philosophical criticisms come from various quarters. Richard Dawkins argues everything can be explained through evolution without divine governance. Theologian Karl Barth suggests human reason is fallible and we should rely on scripture instead. Critics like Kai Nielsen point out that Natural Law fails to account for variations in human nature across different cultures and individuals.
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
The Naturalistic Fallacy presents a fundamental challenge to Natural Law theory. This principle states that you cannot derive moral values (what ought to be) simply from facts about nature (what is). Just because something exists in human nature doesn't automatically give it moral authority - especially for those who don't believe in a moral creator.
When evaluating Natural Law, several possible conclusions emerge. Some might argue it's the definitive moral theory that defines all ethical action, while others might see it as making assumptions that cannot be conclusively proven. Whether its strengths outweigh its weaknesses (or vice versa) remains a matter of debate.
Remember: Every ethical theory has limitations - the question is whether Natural Law's foundations are strong enough to overcome its critics.
Natural Law could also be viewed as just one ethical system among many, with equal validity to other approaches. Or, if you find its foundations problematic and its applications inconsistent, you might conclude the theory is fundamentally flawed. Your assessment will depend on how convincing you find its basic premises about human nature and reason.
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.
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
1
Smart Tools NEW
Transform this note into: ✓ 50+ Practice Questions ✓ Interactive Flashcards ✓ Full Mock Exam ✓ Essay Outlines
Explore the key concepts of Natural Moral Law, including its foundations in Aquinas' philosophy, the Four Tiers of Law, and the Doctrine of Double Effect. This summary provides a comprehensive overview for A-Level Philosophy and Ethics students, highlighting strengths, criticisms, and the role of reason in moral decision-making.
Religious StudiesExplore key ethical theories including Situation Ethics, Utilitarianism, and the principles of John Stuart Mill and Jeremy Bentham. This presentation delves into the application of these theories to contemporary issues such as relationships, animal testing, and nuclear deterrence, emphasizing the balance between individual freedom and societal norms. Ideal for WJEC Ethics students seeking a comprehensive understanding of ethical frameworks.
Religious StudiesExplore the inadequacies of Natural Moral Law as an ethical theory in this detailed essay. Analyze Aquinas' arguments, criticisms from Hume and Moore, and the implications of divine command theory. This essay provides a comprehensive examination of moral philosophy, focusing on the relevance of natural law in contemporary ethical discussions.
Religious StudiesExplore the key concepts of ethical naturalism, including the cognitive and non-cognitive approaches to morality, the role of happiness in ethical evaluations, and the implications of moral objectivism. This summary provides insights into the strengths and weaknesses of naturalistic theories, featuring contributions from philosophers like Bradley, Foot, Kropotkin, and Aristotle. Ideal for students studying moral philosophy and ethical theories.
Religious StudiesExplore Aquinas' Four Tiers of Law, including Eternal, Divine, Natural, and Human Law. This summary delves into the strengths and weaknesses of Natural Law, its connection to moral reasoning, and Aristotle's concept of telos. Ideal for students of moral philosophy and ethics, this resource provides a comprehensive overview of key concepts and their implications for understanding human purpose and law.
Religious StudiesExplore the principles of Situation Ethics, a moral framework that prioritizes love and context over rigid rules. This summary covers key concepts such as antinomianism, legalism, and the strengths and weaknesses of Fletcher's approach to moral decision-making. Ideal for A-Level students studying ethical theories, including discussions on abortion and euthanasia.
Religious StudiesApp Store
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
Sociology