A Level Religious Studies Edexcel

Sexual Ethics

Sexual Ethics within Various Ethical Theories

Utilitarianism

• Utilitarianism addresses sexual ethics towards the principle of maximum utility. Actions are deemed ethical if they bring about the greatest happiness for the greatest number.

• This perspective could justify sexual behaviours that are mutually enjoyable and consensual, providing they cause no harm.

• However, the calculus nature of utilitarianism might lose sight of individual sexual rights and respect, focusing solely on quantitative happiness.

Kantian Ethics

• In contrast, Kantian ethics places central importance on the principle of respect for persons and could condemn sexual behaviours that manipulate or objectify others.

• For Kantians, sex outside of marriage may be unethical as it risks treating individuals as means to an end, and could undermine dignity and rationality.

• While seemingly rigid, this ethical approach upholds the equal worth of all individuals within sexual relations and vehemently opposes exploitation.

Natural Law

• Natural Law, primarily associated with St. Thomas Aquinas, would assess sexual ethics primarily in terms of natural fertility. The main purpose of sex, according to Natural Law theorists, is procreation.

• Hence, this perspective could oppose non-procreative sexual practices, contraceptives, or same-sex relationships. Here, human reason aligns with the natural purpose.

• However, this doctrine’s strict biological interpretation may be critiqued for its reductionist view of human sexuality and lack of consideration for emotional dimensions.

Situation Ethics

• Situation Ethics contends that the most ethical action in any situation is the most loving one. This Agapic love (selfless love) is the primary guide for sexual ethics.

• It may validate wide-ranging sexual behaviours, so long as they are guided by love and mutual respect, thus offering a relatively liberal stance on sexual ethics.

• The ambiguity of situational ethics, however, could potentially justify a variety of behaviours, making it open to criticism for relative values.

Virtue Ethics

• Virtue Ethics focuses on character traits that constitute a 'good' life. This perspective would encourage virtue in sexual behaviour, such as fidelity, honesty, and kindness.

• Issues such as promiscuity, dishonesty, or coercion would be contrary to the virtuous life and therefore deemed unethical.

• Virtue Ethics' personal character focus might eschew concrete rulings on sexual behaviours and instead encourages cultivation of virtues to guide ethical decisions.