The Thomistic Institute Do We Make Morality, or Discover It? An Examination of the Basis of Natural Law – Dr. Erik Dempsey
Jan 1, 2026
Dr. Erik Dempsey, an expert on Aristotle and Aquinas, dives into the debate of whether morality is made or discovered. He argues for the latter, presenting Aquinas's three natural inclinations: self-preservation, social order, and procreation. Dempsey challenges modern moral relativism and highlights how natural law remains relevant in human experience. He emphasizes that moral obligations are not merely social constructs but grounded in human nature, bringing a fresh perspective on the foundation of ethics and justice.
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Morality Is Discovered, Not Made
- Erik Dempsey argues morality is discovered, not invented, and exists in reason and nature.
- He frames natural law as accessible to both religious and secular listeners through reason alone.
Modern Relativism Threatens Moral Authority
- Dempsey cites Pope Benedict XVI diagnosing a modern 'dictatorship of relativism' that treats moral claims as subjective.
- He uses this to motivate the need for a rational account of objective morality.
Weber: Values Fall Outside Rational Science
- Dempsey summarizes Max Weber's distinction: facts versus values and the relegation of moral decisions to will, not reason.
- He presents this as a key modern challenge to natural-law moral rationalism.