Sexual Ethics
Religious Studies: OCR A Level, topic 2.9.1
Sexual Ethics
Sexual ethics examines moral questions around human sexuality and behaviour.
Ethical perspectives
- Ethical perspectives differ across cultures, religions, and historical periods.
- Premarital, extramarital sex, and homosexuality remain central topics in ethical discussions.
- Understanding these issues involves exploring various philosophical and religious viewpoints.
Views on premarital and extramarital sex
- Premarital sex occurs before marriage; extramarital sex happens outside a marriage contract.
- Many religious traditions, like Christianity and Islam, discourage premarital and extramarital sex.
- Secular ethics may focus on consent, commitment, and the potential impact on relationships.
- The debate often centres on personal freedom versus societal norms and responsibilities.
Homosexuality
- Homosexuality involves romantic or sexual attraction between individuals of the same gender.
- Traditionalist views, including some religious teachings, often oppose homosexuality as contrary to natural law.
- Liberal perspectives advocate for acceptance, viewing homosexuality as a natural orientation.
- Legal and social attitudes towards homosexuality have evolved, especially since the late 20th century.
Historical context of sexual ethics
- Christian teachings, from as early as the medieval period, emphasised chastity and fidelity.
- The 1960s saw social revolutions challenging traditional sexual norms, such as the Sexual Revolution.
- In some religions, scriptural interpretations have been revised to be more inclusive.
- Ongoing debates reflect both traditional teachings and modern interpretations.
Example of sexual ethics
- Consider two consenting adults choosing to live together before marriage.
- Traditionalists might argue this undermines marital sanctity based on religious doctrine.
- Secular ethicists might focus on mutual consent, emotional maturity, and individual rights.
- This situation highlights the intersection of religious, cultural, and personal ethics in decision-making.
Test yourself on Sexual Ethics
What are two key considerations in secular ethics regarding premarital and extramarital sex?
How have attitudes towards homosexuality evolved in recent decades?