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Applying Utilitarian Ethics
Applying Utilitarian Ethics
Joseph Fletcher
Situation Ethics was developed for the reason that society were reacting against strict
oppressive laws and moving towards a lifestyle where there are no rules, in a post-war era.
Agape
Antinomianism
Legalism
What could be the reason for considering an act moral despite the fact that such act is in
violation with laws?
The reason for considering an act moral despite the fact that such act is in violation with laws
are: it follows teleological theory that looks for the purpose of an act, it's also a consequentialist
that determines the outcome of an act, not the act itself. Lastly, it's also a relativist in its
approach which means that one must assess each situation on its own merits rather than
applying hard and fast rule. If an act will bring about an end and serves love most regardless the
violation with the law, then an act is still considered moral.
What is that working principle which tells followers of situation ethics to be practical?
Pragmatism
Only one thing is intrinsically good; namely love: nothing else at all
Relativism