Comparison of Ethical Theories: Situation Ethics, Natural Moral Law, Virtue Ethics
Topic Situation ethics Natural moral law Virtue ethics
Type of theory Teleological, relativist Deontological, absolute Teleological, agent-centred
(prioritise the development of
virtuous character traits)
Main principles Agape love, four working Based on reason and purpose; Develop virtues throughout life;
principles: primary precepts: doctrine of the mean; cardinal
-Pragmatism -Preserve life virtues (justice, prudence,
-Relativism -Reproduce temperance, and fortitude.)
-Positivism -Educate
-personalism -Ordered society
-Worshiping god
Response to: Depends on most loving outcome; Embryo use is wrong- life begins Considers virtues of compassion
Embryos may allow research if it promotes at conception; violates ‘preserve and responsibility; context
wellbeing life’. dependent.
Abortion Permissible if it's the most loving Always wrong- breaches the Considers intention and character;
option in the situation. sanctity of life and ‘preserve life’ might allow in extreme cases with
principle. compassion.
Euthanaisia Most loving to end suffering; Always wrong- against ‘preserve Context matters; virtues like
requires rules to avoid a slippery life’, only god has the authority compassion and courage are
slope. over life. considered.
Capital punishment Could be justified if it results in a Acceptable to uphold justice and Depends on whether it cultivates
more loving outcome. order (secondary precepts). justice or vengeance.
Animal issues Supportive if it promotes agapeic Animals exist for human use, but Virtues like compassion and
love; against cruelty. cruelty is wrong. temperance discourage cruelty to
animals.
Topic Situation ethics Natural moral law Virtue ethics
Type of theory Teleological, relativist Deontological, absolute Teleological, agent-centred
(prioritise the development of
virtuous character traits)
Main principles Agape love, four working Based on reason and purpose; Develop virtues throughout life;
principles: primary precepts: doctrine of the mean; cardinal
-Pragmatism -Preserve life virtues (justice, prudence,
-Relativism -Reproduce temperance, and fortitude.)
-Positivism -Educate
-personalism -Ordered society
-Worshiping god
Response to: Depends on most loving outcome; Embryo use is wrong- life begins Considers virtues of compassion
Embryos may allow research if it promotes at conception; violates ‘preserve and responsibility; context
wellbeing life’. dependent.
Abortion Permissible if it's the most loving Always wrong- breaches the Considers intention and character;
option in the situation. sanctity of life and ‘preserve life’ might allow in extreme cases with
principle. compassion.
Euthanaisia Most loving to end suffering; Always wrong- against ‘preserve Context matters; virtues like
requires rules to avoid a slippery life’, only god has the authority compassion and courage are
slope. over life. considered.
Capital punishment Could be justified if it results in a Acceptable to uphold justice and Depends on whether it cultivates
more loving outcome. order (secondary precepts). justice or vengeance.
Animal issues Supportive if it promotes agapeic Animals exist for human use, but Virtues like compassion and
love; against cruelty. cruelty is wrong. temperance discourage cruelty to
animals.
