GCSE Philosophy and Ethics Practice Exam

What does the Catholic Church teach about contraception according to Humanae Vitae?

1. Contraception contradicts the will of the Author of life.

2. Couples should always have as many children as possible.

3. Contraception should be used freely in all circumstances.

4. Contraception has no impact on marriage.

The correct answer is: Contraception contradicts the will of the Author of life.

The teaching of the Catholic Church as articulated in Humanae Vitae emphasizes that contraception contradicts the will of the Author of life. This document articulates the belief that each act of marital intimacy should remain open to the possibility of procreation, reflecting a divine purpose in human sexuality. By suggesting that contraception goes against the natural law established by God, the Church stresses that it undermines the intrinsic connection between the unitive and procreative dimensions of marriage. In contrast to this view, other options suggest ideas that do not align with the teachings found in Humanae Vitae. The belief that couples should always have as many children as possible oversimplifies the Church’s stance, which encourages responsible parenthood rather than unrestrained reproduction. The notion that contraception should be used freely in all circumstances directly opposes the Church's prohibition against artificial contraception. Additionally, claiming that contraception has no impact on marriage overlooks the Church's belief in the essential role of openness to life as a fundamental aspect of marital integrity.