How Much is That Integrity in the Window?

footfootfoot · 12-13-2013, 12:27 PM

At school the other week one of my colleagues decided to flog her left-over halloween candy at .25 per, via an honor system arrangement. I laughed derisively (for a number of reasons, actually) pointing out that most of the candy would just be taken.

Lo and behold, not three days later half the candy was gone and she'd only made about 20 "sales." She was shocked to discover pilfering in this establishment.

We got to talking and I noted that while many people often won't think twice about stealing a quarter or two worth of candy, those same people would hesitate at stealing $10,000. Yet, in the first instance they are selling their integrity for twenty five cents but hesitating at selling it for the higher price.

Sure, there's the difference in opportunity and fear of punishment, but I think most people see the morality of the two things differently.

Are they different? Why?

12-13-2013, 12:27 PM	#1
footfootfoot To shreds, you say? Join Date: Aug 2004 Location: in the house and on the street-how many, many feet we meet! Posts: 18,449	How Much is That Integrity in the Window? At school the other week one of my colleagues decided to flog her left-over halloween candy at .25 per, via an honor system arrangement. I laughed derisively (for a number of reasons, actually) pointing out that most of the candy would just be taken. Lo and behold, not three days later half the candy was gone and she'd only made about 20 "sales." She was shocked to discover pilfering in this establishment. We got to talking and I noted that while many people often won't think twice about stealing a quarter or two worth of candy, those same people would hesitate at stealing $10,000. Yet, in the first instance they are selling their integrity for twenty five cents but hesitating at selling it for the higher price. Sure, there's the difference in opportunity and fear of punishment, but I think most people see the morality of the two things differently. Are they different? Why? __________________ The internet is a hateful stew of vomit you can never take completely seriously. - Her Fobs

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