Situation Ethics Key Terms Flashcards
Joseph Fletcher
1905-1991 author of ‘SituationEthics: The New Morality’ that dicusses morality in relation to situation ethics a theory based on agape.
Consequential
The application of conscience through agape. Moral decisions are made based on the consequences of an action.
Moral Relativism
Recognises no univeral moral normas or rules.
Absolute Rules
An unchangable rule no matter place, situation or time.
Antinomianism
Moral decisions is based on the
matter of spontaneity. Each sitaution is unique. Joseph disagrees with this approach as it will lead to complete choas in society with no rules.
Legalistic
has a set of absolute and
unalterable moral rules and regulations -
irrespective of the outcome. Joseph Fletcher disagrees with this approach as it sees rules as more important than people.
Pragmatism
For a couse or action to be right, it must be practical and work.
Relativism
Absolute rules do not always apply to a situation.
Positivism
The fact that a person must freely choose to believe in agape.
Personalism
The fact that people are more important than rules.
Agape
Greek word used in the New Testament for pure,
unconditional Christian love.
Jesus
Gods son in the bible who recognised agape as the greatest commandment which also functions in many other teachings suchas the ‘golden rule’.
Consience
An internal, intuitive guide to good or bad. However Josphe Fletcher sees it as not something that exists inside us that directs us, rather it is the driving force that guides us to use agape.
Altruism
Acting in the best interest of others even at your own expense.
Existentialism
A philosophy that proposes the individual is free and responsible to determine their own development.
