[misterX]

Originally posted by Stingy Jack
I disagree. I think there are people out there who refrain from comitting acts that are wrong NOT because there is consequence involved ... but simply because the act itself is, well, WRONG. I do believe that the majority of the population, however, rationalize their behavior according to what the law says. "It's illegal, so I won't do it." But there is a few who have actually sat and thought about the reasoning behind the laws ... the deep moral foundations beneath ideas of WHY it is against the law, and decide that way. Now, don't think I'm preaching (I'm an atheist!), but the reason I would not kill someone is simply because I love humankind, and I know that, in order for us to function properly as a society, without fear, without chaos, we have to treat each other a certain way. I actually want human beings to grow, as a species, and continue to discover things and create things and enjoy what is beautiful and good. And people who run around causing fear, spewing hatred, inflicting pain ... well, these people just hold us back. And I don't want to be one of those people. Regardless of what the law says.

well said.