Nel Noddings (1984) is often cited for her model of caring that is developed to be applicable to both men and women. Noddings suggests that, in reality, we are not guided by ethical principles but by the ideal of caring itself. The ethic of care demands that we maintain conditions under which caring can flourish. Noddings further notes specific standards or ideals within a caring relationship including caring itself, compassion, concern, and sensitivity to context.

The emphasis on sensitivity to context makes it particularly difficult to illustrate moral analysis within the ethic of care. If we are not in the immediate context, we cannot really make a decision based on authentic caring. At the same time, a primary strength of this perspective is its intuitive correctness in view of the reality of human relationships. While prior theories based on reason alone reject emotion and require impartiality, such an approach is inconsistent with our experience of human relationships. The ethic of care corrects this. On the other hand, complete rejection of impartiality and ethical principles in favor of sensitivity and emotion may also lead to a rejection of otherwise justifiable obligations and rights.

For more on the ethic of care see:

• Keller, J. (1996). Care ethics as a health care ethic.
• Online guide to ethics and moral philosophy. Ethic of Care.