Morality of theft

Whether stealing is immoral or not depends both on the context of the action and the moral theory used.
I believe in utilitarianism, in which stealing would only be immoral if it leads to bad consequences for the stakeholders.
I would consider shoplifting in a small family store immoral but am fine with stealing from big corporations and retail chains as well as with stealing to feed ones family.

Taking existing laws aside not stealing is just a social contract that mutually benefits adherents.

This page is a permanent link to the reply below and its nested replies. See all post replies »

ArishMell · 70-79, M

Theft is theft and you can't excuse it just to suit you or vague political theories.

[quote]bad consequences for the stakeholders[/quote] Do they include the property owners?

RebelliousSpirit · F

@ArishMell It is not directly linked to my political views.

Fuck private property owners (not the same as personal property)

ArishMell · 70-79, M

@RebelliousSpirit Swearing at them won't help, but I bet if someone stole [i]your[/i] private / personal (same thing) property you'd not be too pleased.

RebelliousSpirit · F

@ArishMell Private property is owned by a private individual or group of private individuals. It is generally land and/or real property and property that is used to generate profit off.

Personal property is those things owned by a specific individual, be those items land, money, jewelry, electronics...

This comment is hidden. Show Comment