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A Comparative Analysis of the Natural Law Doctrine in Ancient and Medieval Periods

Macaulay Adeyelure

Discipline: Philosophy, Law, Political Philosophy

 

Abstract:

The doctrine of the natural law is as old as philosophy with many interpretations that cut across different philosophical epochs. With about 2,500 years of history, it is not surprising that the natural law doctrine has had very different meanings and has served entirely different purposes. However, for the purpose of understanding, an attempt shall be made in this paper at examining the natural law doctrine in the ancient and medieval periods. In this regard, the view of some of its articulate proponents in these historical periods shall be comparatively discussed. Outlined for our discussion among the ancient natural law theorists are Heraclitus, the Sophists, Plato, Aristotle and the Stoics.