Understanding Natural Law: The First Principle of Sound Government and Just Human Relations
In W. Cleon Skousen’s influential book, “The 5000 Year Leap,” the first of the 28 principles of liberty is delineated as “The only reliable basis for sound government and just human relations is Natural Law.” This principle lays the groundwork for understanding the philosophical underpinnings of the American system of governance and the ethical framework for societal interactions.
The Concept of Natural Law
Natural Law, as described by Skousen, refers to a set of moral and legal principles believed to be inherent in human nature and the universe, discerned through reason and reflective of divine will. This law transcends human-made laws, suggesting that there exists an immutable set of rights and wrongs that govern all human behavior and societal structures. Skousen cites the influence of classical philosophers like Cicero, who was a favorite among America’s Founding Fathers, underscoring the idea that these laws are not created by human legislation but discovered through reason and observation of nature and human behavior.
Foundational to American Governance
The Founding Fathers of the United States, according to Skousen, were deeply influenced by this concept. They believed that for a government to be sound and for human relations to be just, these should be rooted in principles that are eternal and universal, not subject to the whims of temporary rulers or popular opinion. This is reflected in the Declaration of Independence, where Thomas Jefferson invokes “the Laws of Nature and of Nature’s God” to justify the colonies’ separation from British control. The principle of Natural Law was seen as a safeguard against tyranny, ensuring that government respects the inalienable rights endowed by the Creator.
Implications for Just Human Relations
On the interpersonal level, Natural Law dictates that humans should interact with one another according to principles that are inherently just. This includes respect for life, liberty, and property, which are seen as natural rights. Skousen argues that this leads to a moral society where individuals naturally strive for virtue, understanding their actions are judged not just by human laws but by a higher, unchangeable standard. This perspective aligns with the views of philosophers like John Locke, who emphasized that rights are not granted by government but are inherent, and governments are instituted to secure these rights.
Criticism and Modern Application
While Skousen’s interpretation of Natural Law has been embraced by many, particularly those with conservative or libertarian leanings, it has also faced criticism. Critics argue that Skousen’s portrayal might oversimplify the complex nature of natural law theory, which has been debated across various philosophical traditions. Moreover, the application of natural law in modern contexts raises questions about how these timeless principles should adapt to contemporary societal issues where there’s no clear consensus on what constitutes natural or divine law.
However, supporters of this principle maintain that its core tenets—respect for individual rights and a moral compass based on a higher law—provide a stable foundation for governance that respects human dignity and liberty. In today’s dynamic political landscape, where debates over rights and governance are ever-present, revisiting the concept of Natural Law can offer insights into balancing authority with freedom.
Conclusion
Skousen’s exploration of Natural Law in “The 5000 Year Leap” serves as a reminder of the philosophical ideals that shaped American constitutionalism and societal norms. It challenges modern societies to consider whether their laws and practices align with these eternal principles or if they have strayed towards more transient, human-centric interpretations of justice and governance. By understanding and perhaps re-embracing Natural Law, there might be a return to what some view as the original intent of the American experiment: a government designed to protect the natural rights of its citizens, fostering just human relations based on timeless ethical standards.
This article reflects on how the first principle from Skousen’s book can be an educational touchstone for those interested in the philosophical foundations of American government and ethics, promoting a dialogue on how these ancient ideas might still guide us in the 21st century.
References:
- Skousen, W. Cleon. “The 5000 Year Leap: A Miracle That Changed The World.” National Center for Constitutional Studies, 1981.