Roman Catholic ethics refers to the ethical principles and moral teachings followed by the Roman Catholic Church. Rooted in the religious traditions and teachings of the church, Roman Catholic ethics guides the moral decision-making and actions of individuals who identify as Roman Catholics.
At the heart of Roman Catholic ethics lies the belief in the inherent dignity and worth of every human being, as they are seen as being created in the image and likeness of God. This belief forms the foundation for various ethical principles and values upheld by the church.
Roman Catholic ethics focuses on a range of moral issues, including the sanctity of life from conception to natural death, the promotion of justice and peace, respect for the human person, and the pursuit of the common good. It places great importance on social justice, the alleviation of poverty and suffering, care for the marginalized and vulnerable, and stewardship of the environment.
The ethical teachings of the Roman Catholic Church are often based on divine revelation, as understood through sacred Scripture, tradition, and the authority of the Magisterium, the teaching authority of the church. This authority provides guidance on various ethical issues, such as abortion, euthanasia, contraception, marriage and sexuality, and social and economic justice.
Roman Catholic ethics also emphasizes the importance of moral virtues, such as prudence, justice, fortitude, and temperance, which help individuals to live a virtuous and moral life. It encourages individuals to follow their conscience, learn from the example of Jesus Christ and the saints, and seek forgiveness and reconciliation when they fail to live up to the teachings of the church. Overall, Roman Catholic ethics seeks to provide a moral compass for Catholics to navigate the complexities of modern life in accordance with the teachings of their faith.
