Lesson 3: Foundational Moral Principle
Objective:
1.) Define foundational moral principle.
2.) Appreciate the relevance of the natural law.
3.) Solve the problem arising from the universal moral principle.
What is meant by foundational moral principle? The word principle comes from the Latin
word “princeps" which means a beginning, a source. A principle is that on which something is
based, founded, originated, and initiated. It is likened to the foundation of a building upon which
all other parts stand. If we speak of light, the principle is the sun because the sun is the body
which the light of this world originate. A foundational moral principle is, therefore, the universal
norm upon which all other principles on the rightness or wrongness of an action are based. It is
the source of morality.
Where is this foundational moral principle? It is contained in the natural law. Many
moralists, authors, and philosophers may have referred to this foundational moral principle in
different terms. But it may be acceptable to all believers and non-believers alike to refer to it as
natural law.
What is the natural law? It is the law "written in the hearts of men" (Romans 2:15). For
theists, it is "man's share in the Eternal Law of God..." (Panizo, 1964). St. Thomas defines it as
"the light of natural reason, whereby we discern what is good and what is evil...an imprint on us
of the divine light" (Panizo, 1964). It is the law that says: "Do good and avoid evil." THIS IS THE
FUNDAMENTAL OR FOUNDATIONAL MORAL PRINCIPLE.
All men and women, regardless of race and belief, have a sense of this foundational moral
principle. It is ingrained in man's nature. It is built into the design of human nature and woven
into the fabric of the normal human mind. We are incline to do what we recognize as good and
avoid that which we recognize as evil.
Panizo says: "Writings, customs, and monuments of the past and present generations
point out to this conclusion: that all peoples on earth, no matter how savage and illiterate, have
recognized a supreme law of divine origin commanding good and forbidding evil" (Panizo, 1964).
For further discussion and presentation please check these links:
https://www.slideshare.net/jawel02/the-foundational-principles-of-morality-andyou#:~:text=A%20foundational%20moral%20principle%20is,is%20the%20source%20of%20mor
ality.&text=All%20men%20and%20women%2C%20regardless,is%20ingrained%20in%20man's%
20nature
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1IG7MfvXOrU
References:
Babor, E. (2006). Ethics, Manila City: Rex Book Store, Inc.
Bulaong, O. et al. (2018). Ethics 1st Edition, Manila City: Rex Book Store, Inc.
Fernandez, A. (2012). Ethics: Basic Concepts, Theories & Cases. Davao City: SMKC PrintShoppe
Activity
What do you think might be the problem that may arise from this universal moral
principle: "Do good and avoid evil"? Relate this question to culture so as to see possible problems.
Craft 3 paragraphs to support your stand on this matter. This is good for 30 points, follow
coherence/correct grammar with logical presentation.