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The Thomistic Institute

Law without a Lawgiver? | Prof. Francis Beckwith

Feb 24, 2021
Prof. Francis Beckwith discusses law without a lawgiver, exploring natural rights from a divine source, the relationship between natural rights and natural law, the controversy of Nuremberg Trials, exploring the nature of the moral law, and the source of natural moral law.
43:31

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Natural rights stem from inherent individual rights beyond government control, emphasizing freedoms like speech and religion.
  • Natural law guides moral principles based on human nature, shaping virtues and influencing governmental laws for the common good.

Deep dives

The Relationship Between Natural Rights and Divine Source

Natural rights are rights that individuals inherently possess which governments are obligated to recognize. These rights, such as freedom of speech and religion, are considered positive rights that go beyond governmental authority. The connection between natural rights and divine source is explored, highlighting how concepts like freedom of speech are inherently good due to their ability to facilitate communication and foster positive outcomes like friendship.

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