D. H. Lawrence: 'Ethics and equity and the principles of justice do not change with the calendar.'

Ethics and equity and the principles of justice do not change with the calendar.

The quote by D.H. Lawrence, "Ethics and equity and the principles of justice do not change with the calendar," captures the timeless nature of moral values and their significance in human society. It implies that ethical principles, fairness, and justice should be upheld consistently, regardless of changing times. On the surface, this quote reminds us of the fundamental and unchanging nature of ethics, emphasizing the importance of adhering to moral values regardless of societal trends or shifts in cultural norms.However, let us delve into a more unexpected philosophical concept that adds an intriguing twist to our understanding of Lawrence's quote. We shall explore the notion of subjective moral relativism contrasted against the idea of objective moral absolutism. These two philosophical perspectives offer contrasting viewpoints on the nature of ethics and its relationship with time, suggesting alternative ways of interpreting Lawrence's quote.Subjective moral relativism posits that ethical principles are subjective and vary from person to person or from culture to culture. According to this perspective, moral judgments are not absolute, but rather shaped by personal beliefs, cultural upbringing, and individual experiences. Proponents of subjective moral relativism argue that ethical values are fluid, influenced by the changing tides of societal norms and the evolution of human perspectives.On the other hand, objective moral absolutism asserts that certain ethical principles are universal and unchanging, regardless of subjective human experiences or cultural contexts. This perspective claims that ethical values exist independently of human perception and are grounded in an objective reality. Objective moral absolutists argue that timeless principles of ethics, equity, and justice, as described by Lawrence, are not subject to the whims of changing times but stand steadfast through the ages.Contrasting these two philosophical concepts with Lawrence's quote raises thought-provoking questions. If ethics and justice are indeed absolute, as objective moral absolutism suggests, then why do we witness disparities in ethical perspectives across cultures and throughout history? Does this variation indicate the relative nature of ethics, as subjective moral relativism proposes? Or can we find common ground that validates Lawrence's assertion that ethics and equity remain constant despite a changing calendar?Perhaps a nuanced understanding lies between these two extremes. While objective moral absolutism appeals to the existence of universal ethical principles, it fails to fully acknowledge the complexities of human experiences and cultural diversity. Conversely, subjective moral relativism, though valuing diverse perspectives, can lead to a dissolution of absolutes and a lack of guiding principles.Lawrence's quote persuades us to seek a balance between these perspectives, embracing the core values that transcend time and cultural boundaries while acknowledging the importance of diverse ethical viewpoints. It urges us to recognize that while the essence of ethics and equity remains unalterable, its manifestations and applications can shift within the framework of cultural and temporal contexts.The challenge then becomes discerning the universal ethical principles that underpin our humanity and applying them in a way that respects and engages with the multiplicity of cultural perspectives. By doing so, we can foster a more inclusive and empathetic society that upholds the principles of justice, irrespective of the changing calendar.In conclusion, D.H. Lawrence's quote reinforces the enduring nature of ethics, equity, and justice, emphasizing that these principles should not be subject to the fluctuations of time. By introducing the philosophical concepts of subjective moral relativism and objective moral absolutism, we explore different interpretations of Lawrence's words. Ultimately, the quote encourages us to find a middle ground, acknowledging the timeless nature of ethical values while appreciating the nuances and complexities of cultural divers