In Iain M. Banks' "Use of Weapons," the concept of Special Circumstances refers to situations that challenge conventional morality, functioning like black holes where established rules of right and wrong no longer hold. The protagonist acknowledges that these circumstances create a unique domain where typical ethical guidelines can be disregarded, suggesting a troubling ambiguity in moral decision-making.

Furthermore, the dialogue highlights the tension between justifications for actions that may be deemed unethical and the reality of navigating complex moral landscapes. The mention of Special Circumstances implies that those involved may exploit them as rationalizations, prompting deeper reflections on the nature of morality and justification in extraordinary situations.