 On property, Thomas follows the view of the Stoics and the Fathers that property exists by human positive law. Natural law permits us to use things  (Summa, 2–2, q. 66, a. 1),  but property goes beyond power to use: it includes a power to exclude others from use, and this power is conferred by human positive law  (Summa, 2–2, q. 66, a. 2).  Property rights give way to extreme need (see above), so in time of extreme need using another’s property without permission is not theft  (Summa, 2–2, q. 66, a. 7).