David Whetham's 2023 Grey Oration delves into the ethical challenges encountered in emergency situations, especially within military contexts. Using both historical and fictional cases, including World War II’s bombing strategy and the TV character Jack Bauer’s morally complex choices, Whetham examines concepts like the "supreme emergency" and "dirty hands," which justify extreme actions under critical threats. 

Whetham challenges the assumption that ethical rules are entirely relative, arguing instead for established guidelines—such as those in the Just War Tradition—tailored to extreme contexts without undermining their moral weight. He stresses that society’s responsibility includes providing clear mandates, adequate training, and psychological support to military personnel, who bear the brunt of moral injury from forced choices made in the fog of crises. Ultimately, he calls for a thoughtful approach to deploying armed forces and supporting them post-service, emphasizing the real costs of these ethical conflicts on individuals and society.