ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Casuistry

Casuistry is a big word that means thinking through specific problems and trying to make the best decision based on different rules, laws, and customs. Imagine you’re playing a game like a puzzle or a maze, and you have to make choices at every turn. Casuistry is like using a map or a guidebook to make the right choice and get to the end of the game.

For example, let's say you have a rule that you shouldn't lie because lying is bad. But then you find out someone is going to hurt your friend if you don’t lie. Casuistry is the process of thinking through this situation and trying to decide what the right thing to do is. You might look at different rules and laws, ask other people for advice, and try to figure out what the best decision is, given all the circumstances.

Overall, casuistry is a way of thinking about right and wrong, and making decisions based on what’s best for the situation at hand. It's a bit like solving a puzzle or playing a game, but with serious consequences and a lot more rules and factors to consider.