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Moral Theory
What moral law or laws might be relevant to consider here?
The natural law theory is essential to consider in this scenario because it states that we all
have an inherent duty to look out for the welfare of others (Timmons, 11). In this situation, we
witnessed a woman being harassed and potentially harmed, so it was our duty as good
Samaritans to report it to the police. Furthermore, the fact that we could only see her silhouette
and license plate number meant that we did not have much information to work with, but by
reporting it, we could help authorities track down the offender. In cases like these, where there
needs to be more concrete evidence or information to work with, the natural law theory is
essential in helping to guide our actions.
Is this law directed toward the common good? How so?
Natural law theory is a philosophical and legal theory that suggests an objective and
universal set of moral principles inherent in all humans. This theory suggests that these moral
principles are directed toward the common good. For example, natural law theory suggests that
humans should act with kindness, respect, and justice toward each other (Timmons, 12). These
principles are intended to protect all people's rights and safety, regardless of ethnicity, religion,
or nationality. This theory is based on the idea that humans instinctively behave in a way
conducive to the common good. Therefore, natural law theorists believe it is possible to derive
moral principles from nature. This theory has been used to justify the legalization of
homosexuality, the abolition of slavery, and the protection of human rights.
How might the law be instilled in us (promulgated) by nature (or God)?
Natural law theory is a philosophical and legal framework that proposes that laws should
be based on inherent universal principles (Timmons, 12). This law can be promulgated by nature
(or by God) by the presence of certain essential goods common to all living beings. These basic
goods include preserving life, procreation, knowing the truth, and living in society. These
principles can be seen in the laws of nature, which are the bases for morality. The presence of
these goods provides a basis for universal law, which is based on justice and fairness. This
framework allows different cultures to share similar values and ethics without needing to agree
on a single set of laws. Natural law theory has been used in many legal systems, including the
United States Constitution. The theory has also been used to argue for the existence of divine
law. Critics of natural law theory argue that the framework is too general and lacks specificity.
They also argue that the principles behind natural law are based on human assumptions and
cannot be verified empirically. Supporters of natural law theory argue that the framework is
based on principles common to all cultures and can be verified through empirical evidence.
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Are any moral laws based on speculative reason or practical reason? How so?
Moral laws can be based on both speculative and practical reasons. The speculative
reason is concerned with exploring theoretical possibilities, and its use can help justify specific
moral laws. Practical reason, on the other hand, is concerned with the pursuit of happiness and
can help justify moral laws that align with our interests.
Application of the criteria of Proportionality
Proportionality – The sound effects of action must not be outweighed by the harmful
effects.

The Doctrine of Double Effect does need to be considered in this scenario. DDE is a
moral principle that states that an action that has both good and bad effects can still be morally
permissible as long as the following criteria are met:
1) The sound effects must be greater than the harmful effects, and
2) The harmful effects must not be intended or expected (Timmons, 14).
In this scenario, it can be determined that the sound effects (finding and rescuing the
woman) are more significant than the harmful effects (the woman being scared). The fact that the
woman was scared was not intended or expected by the protagonist, so it does not count as a
harmful effect. Therefore, rescuing the woman is permissible under the Doctrine of Double
Effect.
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Works Cited
Timmons, Mark, ed. Disputed moral issues: a reader. Oxford University Press, 2014.