Natural Law in the Thought of Karol Wojtyla − Pope John Paul II

Abstract

This article seeks to reconstruct the notion of natural law found in the writings of Karol Wojtyla and in the statements of Pope John Paul II. Wojtyla's thought on this subject is scattered through many of his publications. On the one hand, he bases himself upon the Aristotelian-Thomistic tradition, while on the other he employs Schelerian phenomenology, thereby creating a new philosophical image of the person. He achieves a synthesis of both the subjective and objective aspects of the person, of nature and the person. He locates the basis for moral obligation in the very ontic structure of the person. On this basis the author draws the conclusion that there is an intimate bond between man and the law based upon his nature. He also discusses various levels of human social existence and action which fall within the compass of natural law.