Situation Ethics

Question 1

What did Jack Robinson say in Situation Ethics?

Answer 1

He challenge God and said that as society is changing, our ethics should also change.
God is in our hearts, he is not involved in our daily activities.

Question 2

What kind of theory is Situation ethics? (3)

Answer 2

Realistic, consequentialist, teleological theory

Question 3

How is Situation ethics a ‘realistic’ theory?

Answer 3

It has no absolute rule that can be followed in every circumstance.

Question 4

How is Situation ethics a ‘consequentialist’ theory?

Answer 4

The ending of the action is important because it must bring the greatest love/ happiness.

Question 5

How is Situation ethics a ‘teleological’ theory?

Answer 5

It claims that moral truth can be found through nature and purpose.

Question 6

In the book ‘Situation Ethics’, what does it state? (3)

Answer 6

• There are no ethical rules that can be applied to every circumstances
• Each situation is unique
• Ethical theories should be flexible enough to deal with varying circumstances.

Question 7

What are the features of Fletcher’s Situation Ethics? (3)

Answer 7

• An ethical theory based on the single principle of love
• People should enter every situation prepared to act in the most loving way.
• The right thing to do in any given situation is the most loving thing to do.

Question 8

What are the four principles of Situation Ethics?

Answer 8

Pragmatism, Relativism, Positivism, Personalism.

Question 9

Define ‘agape love’

Answer 9

Sacrificial love

Question 10

Who said ‘Love is patient, love is kind’?

Answer 10

St Paul

Question 11

What does the quote ‘Love is patient, love is kind’ mean?

Answer 11

It is a definition of love Fletcher used, outlined from Bible from St Paul.

Question 12

Name at least 4 strengths of Situation ethics

Answer 12

• It is easy to understand
• It gives people the freedom to act according to the circumstances
• It is based on love
• It enables people to respond emotionally and/or rationally to the situation, rather than act according to rules.

Question 13

Name at least 4 weakness of Situation Ethics

Answer 13

• It is ambiguous – no two people may agree on what the most loving thing to do actually is
• It breaks down complex moral situations into individual moral decisions.
• Depends too much on an individual’s viewpoint.
• It may not be possible to accurately guess the consequences.
• Are only short-term consequences considered? How do we guess long-term consequences?
• The theory could justify murder in the interests of love
• Does love always justify the suffering of others?
• Are some types of love better than others?
• How do we measure love?

Question 14

Who was Fletcher influenced by?

Answer 14

Jack Robinson