Cards (7)

    • What primary precepts affect this issue? 

      Order in society
      Worship God
      Preservation
    • What secondary precepts apply to this issue?
      'Do not steal' which is derived from the Ten Commandments
    • Cardinal virtue of justice would condemn any act of stealing
    • The situation may make the act of theft acceptable, such as a starving man stealing food from a man with plenty. Here, the Cardinal virtue of love will be in practise.
    • In the example situation, the primary precept preservation of life would take priority over ordered society. Additionally, by preserving the mans life he can help others in need
    • Although, if someone copies the behaviour of the starving man example in less exceptional circumstances, this would lead to disorder in society.
    • The principle of double effect does not apply as it is never morally justified to do a bad action to achieve a good outcome (means to an end)