It’s been 60 years since the notion of situational ethics came into vogue. The 1966 release of Joseph Fletcher’s book Situation Ethics: The New Morality was well suited to the anti-establishmentarianism of the era, positing what Merriam-Webster defines as “a system of ethics by which acts are judged within their contexts instead of by categorical principles.”

Situational ethics is a pretty squishy concept. According to an analysis by the BBC, “It may approve of 'evil' acts. Situation ethics teaches that particular types of action don't have an inherent moral value - whether they are good or bad depends on the eventual result.” The goodness or badness of any result is variable, depending on how one defines good and evil. 

Today, we’re witnessing a parallel within the medical profession, resulting in what may be considered situational science. It began on February 3, when the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) altered its guidance for gender surgery on minors, citing “insufficient evidence” on whether irreversible procedures on children are appropriate. 

In the wake of the ASPS announcement, NBC News reported the organization “did not conduct an independent evidence assessment or take other steps that would........

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