Shades of Gray Philosophy

To see the world in terms of “black and white” is far too common in western culture, particularly when it comes to opinionated individuals moving through either political or religious circles. In my experience these people tend to use their religious affiliation as grounds to tell others what is right and what is wrong. To them, there is no middle ground–issues are one of two ways. One of the more unpopular ways to look at issues by seeing them not as “black and white” but rather as “shades of gray.”

A classic example might deal with the subject of taking a life–killing another human. Some would say this is a “black and white” issue. Thou shall not kill… we’ve all heard that one. Some take it as an ultimatum. Others make exceptions: it’s ok to kill in times of war to protect your country, or in self defense, or as punishment for extreme crimes. Once you deviate and make exceptions, then you are no longer taking a “black and white” view on the issue–it becomes an issue which has varying degrees or “shades of gray.”

This same concept can be applied to almost an topic of aspect of behavior. Ultimatums and hardline issues almost always have exceptions and where there are exceptions, levels of “gray” may be brought into play. In the end, I personally believe there are no, or very, very few situations where “black and white” solutions may be applied.