Philosophy
Moral Particularism vs. Principlism in Ethical Decision-Making
Quick fact
Principlism is the foundation of modern medical ethics (using principles like autonomy and beneficience), yet moral particularists argue that such principles are merely 'rules of thumb' that cannot capture the moral weight of unique situations.
Why this is interesting
You're faced with a dilemma: should you lie to protect a friend? Do you follow a universal rule against lying, or does the situation change everything?