A casuist is an individual, especially a theologian or philosopher, who uses subtle but often specious reasoning to resolve moral problems or interpret ethical dilemmas. They analyze moral issues, applying principles and precedents to specific situations. They are often criticized for overly clever or intellectually dishonest arguments. Their approach can prioritize intellectual dexterity over genuine moral concern, potentially justifying actions that appear ethically questionable. The casuist's goal is to navigate complex moral landscapes using reason and logic, sometimes leading to nuanced, yet potentially confusing, conclusions.
Casuist meaning with examples
- The priest, a seasoned casuist, carefully examined the ethical implications of the proposed business venture, dissecting each potential conflict of interest with meticulous precision. He argued that, under specific circumstances, the action was justifiable, despite its apparent ethical gray area. The intricate details of the agreement tested his ethical framework, showcasing his mastery of moral reasoning and argumentation in resolving complex moral challenges. He presented the details to his congregation and asked for their blessing.
- The politician, a skilled casuist, crafted a carefully worded statement regarding the controversial policy, parsing the language to minimize any negative impact. By cleverly using loopholes, he sidestepped direct answers. The ambiguous statements, showcasing his ability to justify inconsistencies, allowed him to satisfy diverse and often opposing viewpoints. He twisted the ethical narrative using moral reasoning that appeased his audience while avoiding outright lies. His response demonstrated an attempt to avoid censure in the face of scrutiny.
- The defense attorney employed a highly sophisticated and convoluted line of reasoning. The lawyer's arguments presented the defendant's actions through a sympathetic lens, subtly shifting responsibility and twisting the facts. His approach involved meticulous parsing of evidence to create loopholes and exploit vulnerabilities, exhibiting casuistic manipulation designed to sway the jury. The lawyer's objective was to highlight the potential for misinterpretation, thereby protecting his client.
- The academic, a renowned casuist specializing in philosophy, meticulously constructed an essay exploring the moral quandary surrounding the use of artificial intelligence. The arguments were rich and insightful with logical deduction, but critics argued that the paper's extensive use of hypothetical scenarios and nuanced distinctions, though intellectually stimulating, ultimately obscured the central ethical dilemma. The intricate analysis proved to be extremely complex.
Casuist Synonyms
dialectician hair-splitter jesuit quibbler rationalizer sophistCasuist Antonyms
idealist moralist pragmatist realistCasuist Crossword Answers
7 Letters
SOPHIST