casuistry
UK[ˈkæʒuɪstri]US[ˈkæʒuɪstri]
n
the use of clever but unsound reasoning, especially in relation to moral questions; sophistry.
n
the resolving of specific cases of conscience, duty, or conduct through interpretation of ethical principles or religious doctrine.
Morpheme Breakdown
casu
istry
casu
case
istry
practice or system
Etymology
the word 'casuistry' has its roots in the latin 'casus', meaning 'a fall, chance, or occurrence', which evolved to signify a particular case or instance, especially one involving moral dilemma. this term entered english via the medieval latin 'casuistica', the branch of ethics dealing with case-based reasoning. the suffix '-istry', denoting a practice or system, was appended to form a noun describing the method of applying general ethical principles to specific cases of conscience. over time, the term acquired a pejorative sense, emphasizing the use of oversubtle and often deceptive reasoning in moral arguments, thus connecting the original concept of analyzing specific 'cases' to the modern abstract meaning of sophistical debate.
Analysis
Structure: casu (case) + istry (practice or system)
casu originates from the latin 'casus', meaning 'case, chance, event'. istry is a suffix derived from the latin '-istria' and greek '-istria', indicating a practice, system, or characteristic actions of a specific type.
Examples
his argument was dismissed as mere casuistry, designed to confuse rather than clarify the ethical issue.
medieval theologians developed casuistry to help priests guide penitents through complex moral situations.
the politician's reply was a masterpiece of casuistry, skillfully avoiding a direct answer to the question.