Situation Ethics

What the resources cover

The mind maps on this page introduce Situation Ethics through ideas such as unconditional love, individual situations and consequences. One map describes the approach as relative and subjective. Another sets out key points about Joseph Fletcher and the idea of loving your neighbor.

Other maps explore the relationship between Situation Ethics and Christianity. The list includes maps presenting different positions on whether they are compatible, giving you material to compare as you study.

Where to start

Begin with a Situation Ethics mind map that introduces unconditional love and the idea that each situation is different. Then look at the map that lists legalism, antinomianism and the working principles. Follow the branches and make a note of terms you want to explore further.

Once you are familiar with the main ideas, explore Situation Ethics Applications or compare the maps on compatibility with Christianity. Use their titles to choose the direction you want to study next.

Use maps and flashcards together

After reading a map, open the Situation Ethics flashcard deck. Its questions include Fletcher's types of ethics and the working principles. Try answering from memory, then return to the map to check the connections between the ideas.

There are no quizzes on this page, so the flashcards offer a way to practice recall. The Christian Ethics Flashcards deck also contains questions about Christian ethics and the teachings of Jesus.

Place the topic in the unit

Situation Ethics is a section of the Religion, Ethics and Conscience unit in Philosophy. As you work through the resources, use the maps and questions to keep track of how this section approaches ethical decisions. Choose a resource and start with an idea you want to understand.