Application of Sexual Ethics
Religious Studies: OCR A Level, topic 2.9.3
Applying Ethical Theories to Sexual Ethics
Sexual ethics involves evaluating the morality of sexual behaviour using ethical theories.
Ethical theories
- Natural law, situation ethics, Kantian ethics, and utilitarianism offer different perspectives.
- Each theory provides unique insights into issues like premarital and extramarital sex, and homosexuality.
- Understanding these theories helps in analysing diverse sexual ethical dilemmas.
Natural law and sexual ethics
- Thomas Aquinas developed natural law in the 13th century, focusing on purpose and order.
- Natural law views sex as primarily for procreation within marriage, reflecting divine intention.
- Natural law typically opposes premarital, extramarital sex, and homosexuality as contrary to natural purposes.
- Adherents value acts that align with human nature and divine law.
Situation ethics and sexual ethics
- Joseph Fletcher proposed situation ethics in the 1960s, prioritising love (agape) in decision-making.
- Situation ethics considers context, emphasising love and the well-being of those involved.
- Situation ethics may permit unconventional sexual relationships if motivated by genuine care and harm reduction.
- This approach allows more personal judgement and flexibility in ethical decisions.
Kantian ethics and sexual ethics
- Immanuel Kant, in the 18th century, emphasised duty, reason, and universal moral laws.
- Kantian ethics assesses sexual acts by their adherence to duty and respect for persons.
- Kantian ethics views sexual relationships needing mutual consent and respect, avoiding objectification.
- This theory may oppose acts driven solely by lust or personal gain as undermining autonomy.
Utilitarianism and sexual ethics
- Jeremy Bentham and John Stuart Mill developed Utilitarianism, prioritising happiness maximisation.
- Utilitarianism assesses sexual acts by their outcomes, promoting pleasure and reducing pain.
- Utilitarianism supports acts enhancing overall well-being, potentially accepting diverse sexual behaviours.
- Utilitarianism encourages evaluating long-term consequences and societal impact of actions.
Example: Ethical theories and cohabitation
- Natural Law may oppose cohabitation without marriage, promoting traditional familial roles.
- Situation Ethics might endorse cohabitation if it fosters a loving, supportive relationship.
- Kantian ethics requires assessing if cohabitation respects individual dignity and mutual obligations.
- Utilitarianism considers if cohabitation enhances happiness and minimises harm for the couple and wider society.
Test yourself on Application of Sexual Ethics
Which ethical theory prioritises love (agape) and context in decision-making regarding sexual ethics?
Which ethical theories evaluate sexual ethics by considering context or outcomes?