Trevor James

In situation ethics, on the other hand. there is no permanent point of reference. Each situation is always different so precedent cannot be a basis for decisions. The only reference points are the situation, reason, will and what may be the best and most helpful decision on a very utilitarian basis of values. The weaknesses are obviou. Firstly situation ethics demands a knowledge beyond the ability of most people. If all standards are rejected and have to be put together for each situation there will never be any certainty or enough of a basis for action. Secondly, the emotions and will, without any moral code or help, are likely to obscure and complicate a situation rather than resolutely execute what the reason may dictate as being right.

On birth control the Protestant tradition has left this up to the individual conscience and the controversy may well be viewed with a Reformation-jaundiced eye. Either God should be considered to have full control of a man's life or we should make it clear that God is only to be considered in certain compartments of our lives. In other words either all of life is sacred and directed towards God or only some of it. If the former is agreed with then such an issue as birth control cannot be lightly left to individual conscience.