human: Please explain to me the four layers of law in Aquinas' Natural Law doctrine, and how they related to the 5 Primary Precepts and the Virtues.

assistant: Aquinas' Natural Law doctrine is a theory of morality that is based on reason and the observation of the natural world. According to Aquinas, there are four layers or levels of law, each of which builds upon the previous one. These four layers are:

1. Eternal Law: This is the highest level of law and refers to the divine plan and order of the universe, which is known only to God. It is the foundation for all other forms of law.

2. Divine Law: This is the law that is revealed to us through scripture and religious teachings. It provides us with guidance on how to live a good and virtuous life.

3. Natural Law: This is the law that is based on reason and is accessible to all people, regardless of their religious beliefs. It is derived from the observation of the natural world and the human person.

4.Human Law: This is the law that is created by human societies and governments. It is based on natural law and should be in accordance with it, but it can be flawed and unjust if it goes against natural law.

The five primary precepts of natural law are:

1. To preserve and protect human life.
2. To live in an ordered society.
3. To worship God.
4. To reproduce and raise children.
5. To learn and know the truth.
These precepts are based on the natural inclinations of human beings and are designed to help us fulfill our purpose and achieve our ultimate end, which is happiness and union with God.

The virtues are habits of excellence that enable us to live in accordance with natural law and the primary precepts. Aquinas identified four cardinal virtues:

1. Prudence: The ability to make wise decisions and to act in accordance with reason.
2. Justice: The willingness to give each person their due and to promote fairness and equality.
3. Fortitude: The strength to overcome adversity and to persevere in the face of challenges.
4. Temperance: The ability to control our desires and passions and to live in moderation.
These virtues are essential for living a good and virtuous life, and they enable us to live in accordance with natural law and the primary precepts.

human: Thank you that was very informative!  How can these virtues be applied to my personal ethos?

assistant: Prudence can be applied in daily life by making wise decisions that uphold the primary precepts of natural law, such as choosing actions that promote the preservation and protection of human life, living in an ordered society, worshiping God, reproducing and raising children, and learning and knowing the truth.

Justice can be applied by treating others fairly and promoting equality, such as advocating for policies that protect human life, ensuring that the laws and regulations of society are just and equitable, and treating all individuals with respect and dignity.

Fortitude can be applied by persevering in the face of challenges and difficulties, such as standing up for one's beliefs and values, defending the rights of others, and advocating for justice and equality despite opposition.

Temperance can be applied by controlling our desires and passions, such as avoiding excess in food and drink, abstaining from harmful substances, and living a balanced and moderate lifestyle that promotes physical and mental health. By embodying these four cardinal virtues in our daily lives, we can uphold the primary precepts of natural law and live a good and virtuous life.