Situation Ethics

Question 1

Situation ethics IS helpful for making moral decisions (flexibility)

Answer 1

Able to deal with exceptional situations,, avoids legalism and keeps spirit of the law

Question 2

Situation ethics IS helpful for making moral decisions (love as a principle)

Answer 2

Love is hard to object to, we want the best for people we love. Seems more compassionate than some versions of utilitarianism (focused on pleasure/pain)

Question 3

Situation ethics IS helpful for making moral decisions (person c)

Answer 3

Its person-centred, therefore seems closer to the teachings of Jesus, who always put people above the rules.

Question 4

Situation ethics ISN’T helpful in moral decision making as: (vagueness)

Answer 4

As a relativist theory, it is vague. Suggestion to do the most loving thing isn’t specific/clear

Question 5

Situation ethics ISN’T helpful in moral decision making as: (moral boundaries)

Answer 5

There are no moral boundaries. Everything could be permitted if the situation was extreme enough. Some things, e.g. rape - are just wrong and nothing can make it right.

Question 6

Situation ethics ISN’T helpful in moral decision making as: (predictions)

Answer 6

As a teleological theory, it requires that we are able to predict the outcomes from our actions. Not always possible.

Question 7

FOR situation ethics as too subjective: (gives responsibility)

Answer 7

Doesn’t rely on external authorities and treats individuals as adults.

Question 8

FOR situation ethics as too subjective: (contexts change, flexibility)

Answer 8

Situations change, its important that flexibility is retained. Situation ethics recognises that the best outcome differs depending on the scenario

Question 9

Situation ethics is TOO subjective as: (emphasis on individual)

Answer 9

Too much focus on personal decision-making means that it can never be applied in a society, views of love differ

Question 10

Situation ethics is TOO subjective as: (importance of community)

Answer 10

Other thinkers, e.g. Bonhoeffer, recognise the value of community. he recognises the importance of others in finding the right way forward.

Question 11

Situation ethics is TOO subjective as: (overly optimistic)

Answer 11

Our reason is limited. The approach may be too optimistic about our capacity to reason clearly and reach moral decisions.