The moral theory that is sensitive to the specifics of each case, such as the context and relationships of the case, is called __. Utilitarianism Moral Particularism Deontology Formalism
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is: Moral Particularism
Explanation (300 words):
Moral Particularism is a moral theory that emphasizes the importance of context, relationships, and the specific details of each moral situation. Unlike more rigid ethical theories, such as utilitarianism or deontology, moral particularism argues that there are no absolute moral principles that apply universally to every case. Instead, what is morally right or wrong depends on the unique circumstances of each individual case.
This theory holds that moral reasoning is similar to perceptual judgment. Just as we recognize colors or shapes depending on how they appear in specific situations, we determine moral rightness by carefully observing the particular features of a situation. For example, telling a lie may be morally wrong in many cases, but in a specific context—such as lying to protect someone from harm—it might be the morally right action.
Moral particularists argue that moral principles can sometimes obscure rather than clarify ethical thinking, especially when they force people to apply rules without considering important contextual details. For instance, while utilitarianism focuses on maximizing overall happiness and deontology stresses duties or rules, both can lead to morally questionable outcomes if applied rigidly.
In contrast, moral particularism values moral sensitivity, empathy, and the ability to discern the morally relevant features in a particular situation. This approach is especially influential in fields like medical ethics, law, and interpersonal relationships, where moral decisions often cannot be reduced to simple formulas.
Critics of moral particularism argue that it risks becoming arbitrary or inconsistent. However, defenders claim that it promotes a more realistic and compassionate form of moral reasoning—one that aligns better with how people actually make ethical decisions in the real world.
In summary, Moral Particularism is the moral theory most concerned with the specific context and relationships in each moral case.