Not All Reasons Are Equal
As reasons have everything to do with everyday living and ethics, one will grow to understand that not all reasons for doing something are created equal. Hence consider this question: Are your reasons for doing something justifiable?
Case Scenario
John is two months behind on his rent and has just received an eviction notice. If John makes an arrangement to pay the landlord the full amount ($1,300.00) within 7 days, this would stop the eviction. John has not told anyone about his predicament, nor has he asked to borrow the money to pay his past due rent. While visiting his disabled father, John finds $1,500.00 neatly tucked away in a bible on top of his father's closet shelf. As John looks at the money , he makes up his mind to take the money, but will pay it back immediately. Without his father's knowledge John uses the money to pay his rent.
Given that we don't know if John's father actually found out that the money is missing, but would John replacing the money make his reasons for taking the money justifiable?
Rights are equal, reasons are not
As social and civil human beings our life depends on what's true, what's right , and what's appropriate for all. But as actions go undefined, reasons become unaddressed . When people justify their actions solely on good feelings (selfish- intentions- like John), then the reason itself creates a problem. When considering what rights are-- we know that actions are not justified by good feelings alone, but by what is fair , acceptable, or equally attainable. Consider the following statement:
Statement: Just because it feels good, it does not justify that the action or reason is right.
Ex 1 A Cheater- Its unfair to the individual who is unknowingly being cheated on ( The act is benefiting one person's pleasure- the cheater, while unfairly diminishing the other's right to pleasure and happiness)
Ex 2 A Thief- Its unfair to the individual who worked hard to buy the very thing or things that was taken from them ( The act is benefiting one person's pleasure- the thief, while unfairly diminishing the other's right to peace and material comforts)
Consequently, there is value in evaluating and (CLEARLY) defining one's own reasons for taking a specific action.
Work2Rise: After reflectively evaluating your reasons for taking a specific action , could you ethically accept this action being done until you .
Words4-ur.Wisdom: Let your values guide your actions. (Is it true, Is it right, Is it appropriate?)
--ALJ