"is derived from the natural order of the world and (the) built-in tendencies of human

nature" (Miller, 1996, p.499). The difference in Aquinas' view of natural law can be

attributed to the influence of his Christian beliefs (Miller).

 According to Higgins (1954), natural law commands that individuals treat other

human beings with the same regard they have for themselves. Higgins asserted that

humans are not required to love each other to the same degree they love themselves.

However, he believed that natural law requires human kind to love each other with the

same quality of benevolence (Higgins). This premise is embodied in the proverb, Do unto

others as you would have them do unto you. Higgins maintains that this is a basic

principle of human conduct that cannot be compromised for the good of society.

Humans as social beings

Humankind is considered by many theorists to be social beings (Higgins, 1954; Miller,

1996). The foundation of this belief lies in the understanding that humankind is not fully

self-sufficient, and requires interaction with other humans in a social setting (Higgins).

However, if humankind is to co-exist in a social setting, then individual needs must not

abound. In order to curtail the pursuit of individual rights lest they infringe upon the

rights of others, a social contract is required. A social contract is an agreement between

its members where, like any contract, each individual preserves certain rights at the cost

of others (Miller). "Thus I see it is to my advantage to submit myself to government, to

obey laws, etc., if thereby I can secure my fundamental rights and freedoms..." (Miller,

p. 511). Locke believed that the social contract logically followed the state of nature

(Locke, 1690/1968; Miller). The main purpose then of a social contract is the secure

freedom and equality for all.