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Situation ethics is a theory where the situation is taken into account first, before deciding on the rules of right and wrong. There is no set of rules, because what might be considered immoral in one situation could be considered the most moral thing to do in another.

This approach is teleological rather than deontological as it is focused on the purpose and reason for the actions rather than the actions themselves.

As each situation is different, the outcome therefore will be too. This approach allows the individual to focus on all the factors involved and weigh them up. Situation ethics state that there are no moral laws or rules and that the context is important. The general rule of this approach is that the correct action should be the most loving action.

Joseph Fletcher, the main proponent of situation ethics, stated that agape is the only love that applies in decision making. Agape love is unconditional love and Fletcher described it as "giving love – non-reciprocal, neighbour regarding". Fletcher believed humans could break conventional moral rules in certain situations, providing it was for a loving motive.

Arguments for

• Individuals have control over their own lives and decision making.
• Each situation is different so deserves consideration.

Arguments against

• Each person’s definition of love is different so cannot ensure the most loving action is always carried out.
• Individuals can justify any action.
• There is no clear guidance for any situation.

Virtue ethics

The concept of virtue ethics is based on the morality of the individual making decisions, rather than the act or outcome.

Virtue ethics are concerned with the whole person and how they live, rather than one act. A virtuous person will seek to do the right thing and take the right action at all times. Rather than an act being judged, the individual is judged on how they live and a good act can only be classed as good if a virtuous person would carry out that act.

In traditional Christian theology there are four cardinal virtues that an individual should aspire to:

• prudence
• fortitude
• temperance
• justice

These were later added to by the theological virtues of faith, hope and charity which can be traced back to St Paul. For an individual to be virtuous then these basic virtues need be adopted.

Arguments for

• Focuses on an individual’s life rather than just one action.
• It focuses on what it means to be a good human.

Arguments against

• There is no clear advice on what to do in each situation.
• Virtues can be relative to the culture/society.