The Natural Law: A Beginner’s Thomistic Guide

by Steven J. Jensen

Drawing upon the timeless wisdom of Thomas Aquinas, The Natural Law offers clear insights into perplexing ethical dilemmas. The compelling conclusions of Aquinas emerge through a critical examination of contemporary ethical frameworks including moral relativism, utilitarianism, and Machiavellian politics. In part one, which elucidates the core principles of natural law ethics, the reader will discover fundamental truths underpinning the concepts of right and wrong, which are rooted in the very fabric of our humanity. Part two navigates the ethics of harm, grappling with contentious issues such as capital punishment, just war, and self-defense, while at the same time addressing moral quandaries like sacrificing one life in order to save another. This section also resolves thorny practical questions surrounding human actions. How can we tell the difference between an action and its consequences? How do we determine exactly what it means to kill another person? Part three ventures into the intricacies of human societies. The reader will explore the importance of authority and rules in guiding social interactions, from the nurturing bonds of the family to the shifting complexities of political society. The principles examined will shed light upon controversial topics within sexual ethics, such as transgenderism, faithful spousal intimacy, and cloning. The Natural Law invites readers on an engaging journey of critical inquiry. By challenging prevailing assumptions and provoking self-reflection, it will reshape your understanding of ethics and human nature, ultimately revealing your role and purpose within the universe.

302 pages, Paperback

Published March 14, 2025

About the author

Steven J. Jensen is the author of Sin: A Thomistic Psychology; Knowing the Natural Law: From Precepts and Inclinations to Deriving Oughts; Living the Good Life: A Beginner's Thomistic Ethics and Good and Evil Actions: A Journey Through Saint Thomas Aquinas (all CUA Press).

Reviews

[Luke · Rating 4.5 out of 5]

Checked this out in a quest to check my own grasp of the basics and find introductory material to recommend to non-autists. Excellent and as accessible as the name implies.

[Victor · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Natural Law: A Beginner's Thomistic Guide is an engaging and thoughtfully structured introduction to one of the most enduring traditions in moral philosophy. Drawing upon the wisdom of St. Thomas Aquinas, Steven J. Jensen presents the principles of natural law with remarkable clarity, making complex philosophical concepts accessible without sacrificing intellectual rigor.

One of the book's greatest strengths is its ability to connect classical Thomistic thought with contemporary ethical debates. Rather than presenting natural law as merely a historical framework, Jensen demonstrates its continued relevance by engaging with modern perspectives such as moral relativism, utilitarianism, and Machiavellian political thought. His balanced and systematic approach encourages readers to critically evaluate competing ethical theories while gaining a deeper appreciation for the philosophical foundations of natural law.

Equally impressive is the book's practical application of ethical principles to some of today's most challenging moral questions. Through thoughtful discussions of self-defense, just war, capital punishment, sacrifice, sexual ethics, cloning, and other complex issues, Jensen illustrates how Thomistic reasoning can provide a coherent framework for navigating difficult moral decisions. Throughout, the analysis remains grounded in careful reasoning and philosophical consistency, inviting readers to engage seriously with questions of human dignity, justice, and the common good.

At its core, The Natural Law is an outstanding introduction to Thomistic ethics and moral philosophy. Combining scholarly insight with accessible writing, Steven J. Jensen offers readers a valuable guide to understanding natural law and its enduring significance in contemporary ethical discourse. Thought-provoking, well-organized, and intellectually rewarding, this book is highly recommended for students, educators, philosophers, theologians, and anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the principles that have shaped Western moral thought for centuries.