Natural Law

The Five Primary Precepts:

-Thomas Aquinas' Natural Law is based on how faith and reason mutually support each other, emphasises the Five Primary Precepts:

First primary precept: Zoos support this precept by rescuing injured or endangered animals, protecting them from poaching and habitat destruction, and preventing species from going extinct. They provide medical care, food, and shelter, helping animals to survive when they might not be able to in the wild. However, zoos also contradict this precept when animals are confined in small enclosures, experience distress, or are exploited for entertainment and profit. While zoos aim to protect animals, true protection would ideally allow them to thrive in their natural habitats rather than in captivity.

Second primary precept: By running breeding programs, it help prevent the extinction of endangered species, ensuring that animal populations continue. Many zoos participate in conservation efforts, carefully managing breeding to maintain animal diversity. However, they also go against this precept when breeding is done unnaturally or for commercial purposes rather than the species' well-being. Some zoos separate offspring from their parents too early, interfere with natural mating behaviours, or breed animals without the intention of releasing them into the wild, which can contradict the true purpose of reproduction.

Third primary precept: When children and young people visit zoos, they learn about different animals, their characteristics, and their natural habitats. Seeing animals up close helps them understand wildlife in a way that books or videos cannot. By observing animals in zoos, young people gain knowledge about different species and develop a greater awareness and appreciation for the natural world. Schools and families often visit zoos as part of learning experiences, making them important places for educating future generations.

Fourth primary precept: Animals in zoos are kept in enclosures where they cannot roam freely or live as they would in the wild. Instead of being in their natural habitats, they are confined to artificial spaces, often separated from their own kind. Many animals show signs of stress, such as pacing or repetitive movements, which means they are not at peace in their environment. They are controlled by humans and unable to experience the freedom and peaceful life they would have had in the wild.

Fifth primary precept: In Natural Law, worshiping God can be understood as respecting his creations and allowing it to flourish as intended. Animals are part of the natural world, and keeping them in captivity prevents them from living as they were supposed to. Instead of roaming freely in their natural habitats, they are confined to enclosures where their behaviours and instincts are restricted. By controlling and exploiting animals for human purposes, zoos do not fully respect the natural order that God created.

Strengths: Focuses on preserving life by reproducing and educating the young. Shows the moral responsibilities have in caring for animals.

Weaknesses: Opposes zoos overall even when they follow some primary precepts. Struggles to follow some ethical laws, such as balancing freedom with the need to protect species from extinction. Does not fully consider whether captivity can sometimes benefit individual animals, such as those unable to survive in the wild.