situational ethics

[/ˌsɪtʃuˈeɪʃənəl ˈɛθɪks/]
noun
ética situacional
1. An ethical theory that denies the existence of absolute moral principles and argues that moral judgments should be made based on the specific circumstances of a situation rather than fixed rules
Some argue that situational ethics allows for lying in order to save an innocent person's life.
Alguns argumentam que a ética situacional permite mentir para salvar a vida de uma pessoa inocente.
2. The practice of adjusting one's moral standards or behavior according to the demands of a particular situation
Critics claim that situational ethics can be used to justify unethical behavior.
Críticos alegam que a ética situacional pode ser usada para justificar comportamento antiético.
Situational ethics is a significant concept in contemporary moral philosophy, often invoked in discussions about business ethics, medical ethics, and religious morality. In Brazil and Portugal, it is primarily discussed in academic and philosophical contexts. In the USA, it is frequently debated in religious circles and corporate settings, with some viewing it as pragmatic and others as morally dangerous. The term gained particular prominence in the 1960s with Joseph Fletcher's work on the subject.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
contextual ethicsrelativistic ethicscase-by-case moralitycircumstantial ethics
Antonyms / Antônimos
deontological ethicsabsolute moralitymoral absolutismcategorical imperative

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
ética situacional
Standard academic and philosophical usage
São Paulo
ética situacional
Common in university and business ethics discussions
Portugal
ética situacional
Formal philosophical and academic contexts
USA
situational ethics
Commonly debated in religious, academic, and corporate ethics contexts

Related Words

moral relativismconsequentialismutilitarianismvirtue ethicsethical dilemma

Related Idioms & Phrases

bending the rules
playing by the situation's rules
context is king
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