‘Situation ethics is of no help with regard to the issue of
euthanasia’ – Discuss 40 marks
OCR A-level religious studies
Situation ethics, put forward by Joseph Fletcher in the 20 th century, is a theory which states that the
only factor in ethical decision making should be agape, an unconditional and disinterested love for
one's neighbour. It is seen as the middle ground between legalism and antinomianism, and so is not
based on a set of rules, but instead involves knowing when to apply principle and when to make
exceptions. Therefore, situation ethics would provide a useful approach to the issue of euthanasia as
it can adapt to each situation, choosing the most loving action for each individual.
This theory stems from a belief in agape, which is found in the Bible and was one of the key topics
that concerned the teachings of Jesus, as shown through the Golden Rule, ‘Love your neighbour as
euthanasia’ – Discuss 40 marks
OCR A-level religious studies
Situation ethics, put forward by Joseph Fletcher in the 20 th century, is a theory which states that the
only factor in ethical decision making should be agape, an unconditional and disinterested love for
one's neighbour. It is seen as the middle ground between legalism and antinomianism, and so is not
based on a set of rules, but instead involves knowing when to apply principle and when to make
exceptions. Therefore, situation ethics would provide a useful approach to the issue of euthanasia as
it can adapt to each situation, choosing the most loving action for each individual.
This theory stems from a belief in agape, which is found in the Bible and was one of the key topics
that concerned the teachings of Jesus, as shown through the Golden Rule, ‘Love your neighbour as
