Situation Ethics, Anthology Flashcards
(20 cards)
What is Barclay’s main critique of Fletcher’s use of extraordinary examples?
Barclay argues Fletcher focuses too much on extraordinary moral situations, suggesting Situation Ethics (SE) isn’t suitable for everyday moral decision-making.
Why does Barclay say SE is too focused on extraordinary cases?
Because Fletcher uses rare and extreme examples to justify SE, which may not reflect normal life.
How does Barclay critique Fletcher’s reliance on extraordinary cases?
He claims it’s easier to justify extreme measures in crises than use them to define everyday morality.
What is the issue with defining ‘ordinary life’ in SE?
Barclay questions who decides what is ‘ordinary’; for example, divorce might now be considered ordinary.
What is Barclay’s concern about SE giving too much moral freedom?
It leads to moral individualism, where people act on subjective definitions of ‘love’.
What is the psychological criticism Barclay makes of SE?
Humans may not fully understand their own emotions or be reliable in acting selflessly.
How does Barclay describe the danger of SE in terms of law?
By discarding rules, SE undermines legal systems that ensure fairness and accountability.
Why might SE be problematic without boundaries?
It assumes people will always choose loving actions, which Barclay sees as overly optimistic.
What is the risk of moral unpredictability in SE?
Without rules, SE can make morality unpredictable and inconsistent.
How does Barclay critique the principle of individual moral judgement in SE?
He argues SE makes the moral journey lonely and subjective, lacking communal agreement.
What does Barclay say about the consequences of trusting individuals to always do the right thing?
He doubts this trust is justified, believing individuals often fail to act selflessly.
How does Barclay say SE fails to account for the need for consistent behaviour?
SE lacks structure to guide consistent moral behaviour and protect others from harm.
What example does Barclay give about resisting immoral systems?
He uses Bonhoeffer as an example—arguing people doing good may act against systems, but SE gives no guidance on when that is justified.
How does SE create tension between personal love and universal moral principles?
SE may justify actions harmful to the community if done in the name of love.
What is Barclay’s view on moral communities and shared values?
He argues SE weakens shared moral standards necessary for a functioning society.
Why does Barclay argue that love alone is not a sufficient moral guide?
Because it’s too vague and subjective without agreed-upon principles or rules.
How does Barclay see the conflict between individual ethics and community needs?
SE emphasizes individual decisions which may ignore broader social consequences.
What does Barclay say about the effects of individualism in SE?
It reflects a modern, individualistic view of morality that risks neglecting community welfare.
Why does Barclay argue communities need moral rules?
To ensure stability, fairness, and shared understanding of right and wrong.
How could SE be revised to address Barclay’s concerns?
By combining SE’s focus on love with some structured moral guidance or rules.
