Application - humans

Question 1

Abortion

Answer 1

• Supported in some cases if it was the most loving choice
• Shows flexibility but also potential controversy

Question 2

Euthanasia

Answer 2

• Fletcher argues that euthanasia could be morally right if it relieved suffering and expressed agape
• This highlights its compassion but clashes with absolutist vies on the sanctity of life

Question 3

Embryo research

Answer 3

• If research leads to life saving cures and promotes human flourishing, it could be morally acceptable
• Value judged by loving outcomes, not intrinsic status of embryo

Question 4

Capital punishment

Answer 4

• judges case by case
• Execution could be justified if it protects society but often fails the love test since it denies forgiveness, dignity and rehabilitation
• Its strength is its flexibility but its weakness is subjectivity - “love” can defend both mercy and killing, making it compassionate yet morally unstable

Question 5

Lying

Answer 5

• reflects absolute prohibitions: lying can be justified if it promotes agape
• critics may argue it risks excusing dishonesty and undermining trust - dangerous subjectivity

Question 6

Theft

Answer 6

• May be permitted if it expresses love
• Prioritizes people over rules
• Risks normalizing injustice and eroding social trust

Question 7

Designer babies

Answer 7

• If prevents disease or promotes flourishing, may be most loving choice
• critics warn it treats children as products and blurring love with preference