John Finnis and Natural Law

This chapter explores John Finnis’s contributions to natural law theory, emphasising his methodological approach, ethical and political philosophy, and views on rights, law, and religion. Finnis, a leading figure in “new natural law theory,” argues that practical reason identifies basic human goods—such as life, knowledge, and sociability—which are incommensurable and foundational to moral and legal norms. He critiques consequentialism and stresses the importance of justice, rights, and the common good in political authority. Finnis defines law as a system of rules aimed at resolving coordination problems for the common good, blending natural law with positive law through determinatio . He prioritises persons and peoples, asserting that law must recognise human dignity and cultural bonds. The chapter concludes with Finnis’s theological perspective, linking natural law to divine creation and advocating for religious liberty while affirming reason’s role in evaluating revelation.