... and freely choose their destiny, 'natural law'. Due to this relation with God, natural law is seen as a deontological theory in that it is a rational understanding and following of God's final purpose and therefore gives the possibility of providing a clearly defined, universal rule. It is debatable however, whether freedom enters into the equation, because the strictness of it's rules makes this theory a promoter of less independent thought and decision making. Aquinas believed in human immortality, so in his opinion, any moral theory and understanding of natural law must include the belief that human existence has a purpose in the next life as well as this. His first priority was therefore that the 'self' must not give in to non-rational desires and become enslaved, as it must be preserved both now and beyond the grave. According to Aquinas, the starting point for those wishing to follow the natural law, ...

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