Natural Reason and Natural Law

Natural law, according to Thomas Aquinas, has its foundation in the evidence and operation of natural, human reason. Its primary precepts are self-evident. Awareness of these precepts does not presuppose knowledge of, or even belief in, the existence of God. The most interesting criticisms of Thomas Aquinas's natural-law teaching in modern times have been advanced by the political philosopher Leo Strauss and his followers. The purpose of this book is to show that these criticisms are based on misunderstandings and that they are inconclusive at best. Thomas Aquinas's natural-law teaching is fully rational. It is accessible to man as man.


""Leo Strauss and his followers criticize Aquinas's doctrine of natural law. They claim it depends on a revealed theology or a discredited science. James Carey offers a thoughtful response, showing that these critics get Aquinas wrong and do not adequately explain what they themselves mean by reason and nature. Carey executes his polemic with skill and verve, while offering insightful reflections of his own.""
--Kevin White, Associate Professor, School of Philosophy, The Catholic University of America

""In Natural Reason and Natural Law, James Carey not only adeptly addresses Straussian criticisms of Aquinas's natural law teaching, but also offers a robust and timely philosophical defense of the rational foundations of ethics. This book deserves a careful reading by Thomists, Straussians, and anyone interested in exploring the viability and enduring contribution of the natural law tradition in ethics.""
--Paul Macdonald, Department of Philosophy, United States Air Force Academy


James Carey is a tutor and former dean of St. John's College, Santa Fe.