Casuistic Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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casuistic
[kรฆzหjuหษชstษชk ]
Definition
moral reasoning
Casuistic refers to a form of reasoning that involves the application of general ethical principles to specific cases. This method often relies on analogies, comparisons, and precedents to solve moral dilemmas or legal issues. It is commonly used in fields like law, theology, and philosophy, to evaluate cases that may not be clear-cut. Casuistic reasoning helps in understanding the complexities of ethical decision-making by focusing on the details of particular situations.
Synonyms
analytical, case-based, situational.
Examples of usage
- The lawyer employed casuistic analysis to navigate the complicated legal case.
- In theological discussions, casuistic reasoning is often used to resolve difficult moral questions.
- Casuistic methods can illuminate the nuances of unique ethical situations.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Philosophy
- Casuistic reasoning often applies to ethics, aiming to navigate complex moral dilemmas.
- It encourages looking at detailed scenarios rather than relying solely on strict rules.
Law
- In legal contexts, casuistic approaches help to interpret laws through the lens of various cases.
- Judges often use case studies to determine precedent and ensure fair judgments.
Psychology
- Understanding casuistic reasoning can reveal how people justify their actions and ethical decisions.
- It highlights cognitive biases when individuals apply rules to unique situations differently.
Literature
- Many works of literature explore moral ambiguities, illustrating casuistic reasoning in charactersโ decisions.
- Authors use detailed scenarios to challenge readersโ beliefs and provoke thought about morality.
Origin of 'casuistic'
Main points about word origin
- Roots in the Latin word 'casus', meaning 'case' or 'event', highlighting its focus on individual situations.
- The term evolved during the late medieval period to emphasize moral reasoning in specific contexts.
The term 'casuistic' originates from the Latin word 'casus', meaning 'case' or 'event'. This, in turn, is derived from the verb 'cadere', which means 'to fall'. The word began to take on its ethical connotation around the 16th century during the rise of moral theology and legal studies, where scholars examined specific cases to apply broader principles. It gained traction in both religious and philosophical texts as thinkers sought to address the complexities of moral behavior in varying contexts. This analytical approach allowed for a more nuanced understanding of ethics that could adapt to the intricacies of life, reflecting the real challenges people face in making moral choices.