Tilanneperäisyys

Tilanneperäisyys, often translated as situational ethics or contextuality, is a philosophical concept that emphasizes the importance of specific circumstances and situational factors when making ethical judgments or decisions. It posits that moral rules and principles are not absolute or universally applicable in all situations, but rather their relevance and application depend on the context in which they are invoked.

This approach contrasts with deontological ethics, which relies on fixed duties and rules, and consequentialism, which judges actions based solely on their outcomes. Tilanneperäisyys suggests that a moral decision might be right in one situation but wrong in another, even if the underlying principles seem similar. The unique characteristics of each situation, including the individuals involved, their relationships, the potential consequences, and the prevailing social norms, must be carefully considered.

Proponents of tilanneperäisyys argue that it allows for greater flexibility and nuance in ethical reasoning, enabling individuals to respond more effectively to the complexities of real-life moral dilemmas. Critics, however, worry that it can lead to moral relativism, where any action can be justified by appealing to specific circumstances, potentially undermining the concept of objective morality and consistent ethical standards. The application of tilanneperäisyys requires careful discernment and a deep understanding of the particular context to avoid subjective biases.