University of Virginia Library

Guided By Ethical Maxims

The situationalist, according
to Mr. Fletcher, guided by
ethical maxims and experience,
centers his approach upon the
utilitarian ideal of "the greatest
good for the greatest number."
The individual is responsible
for creating a solution based
upon "agape" or neighborly
love.

"I contend that the only
Commandment is to love your
neighbor, your self and your
God," asserted the soft-spoken,
articulate theologian. "Most
people are willing to trade
creativity for security, I'm
not."

"The most terrible and
tragic thing that can happen to
people is not to cease to live,
but to cease to love," he
lamented. "It's loving that
makes a man or a woman."

"What I want us to do is to
get out of systems. We can't
escape all of the systems in our
society, but at least we can get
out of mental and moral
systems."

Mr. Fletcher came to the
University in the fall of 1970
to stay for a year. He
explained, "My wife and I have
enjoyed Charlottesville so
much, not only have we stayed
longer than expected, we are
indefinite about plans to
leave."

"Situation Ethics" adheres
to no absolutes except love
said Mr. Fletcher. The
situationalist must be aware of
the consequences of a decision
before he can act with "loving
concern."