Sexual Ethics Flashcards
(23 cards)
What does the Bible say about homosexuality, pre-marital sex, and extra-marital sex?
The Bible is against all three.
Which Bible verse condemns adultery?
‘Thou shalt not commit adultery’ – applies to both pre-marital and extra-marital sex.
Why is homosexual sex considered adultery according to traditional Christian interpretation?
Because homosexuals can’t marry (traditionally), all homosexual sex is outside marriage and thus considered adultery.
What does Leviticus 20:13 say about homosexuality?
‘Man shall not lie with man as he does with woman, that is an abomination… they shall surely be put to death.’
What did St Augustine believe about sexual desire and original sin?
He believed sexual desire was a key part of original sin and we feel shame due to our fallen state.
Why do people cover their genitals according to Augustine?
Because of the shame associated with original sin and sexual desire.
What did Augustine say about the proper context for sex?
Sex should be confined to marriage and for the purpose of having children.
Why does Augustine reject homosexual sex?
It doesn’t fulfill the purpose of reproduction and is a result of original sin.
How did Freud view Christian sexual ethics?
He thought they were overly repressive and caused mental illness.
What is the secular liberal view on sex influenced by Freud?
Sex is natural and shouldn’t be a source of shame.
What is Bishop Barron’s criticism of secular attitudes to sex?
He says it leads to superficiality and psychological harm.
What does Natural Law say about the purpose (telos) of sex?
The telos of sex is reproduction, best achieved within marriage.
Why is homosexual sex wrong according to Natural Law?
Because it cannot lead to children, it does not fulfill the telos of sex.
What is a modern critique of Natural Law?
It is outdated, reflecting medieval socio-economic needs not relevant today.
What is Fletcher’s main principle in Situation Ethics?
Agape love – actions are right if they lead to loving outcomes.
When does Fletcher allow pre-marital or homosexual sex?
When it results in love and no harm – freely chosen and consensual.
What is Mouw’s critique of Fletcher?
Jesus made other commands beyond love, so Fletcher oversimplifies biblical ethics.
What does Rule Utilitarianism say about sex?
Sexual freedom is acceptable if it doesn’t harm others – guided by rules like the harm principle.
What is a utilitarian concern with sexual liberalisation?
It might harm social order, traditional families, and long-term well-being.
How does Mill respond to majority disgust over homosexuality?
Society should change its attitudes to protect minority happiness in the long run.
What does Kantian ethics say about sex outside marriage?
It uses others as a means and is thus morally wrong unless within marriage for reproduction.
What is a major critique of Kant’s view on sexual ethics?
It ignores consequences and the value of love and emotion in relationships.
How do virtue ethicists respond to Kant’s disregard for emotion?
They argue emotions can be trained and morally reliable, especially love.
