Is it ever right to break the law?
Is it ever right to break the law?
user
It is never right to willfully break the law. However, there may be instances when it is necessary to Break the Law (e.g., in self-defence or to stop a serious crime from taking place). In these cases, it might be morally justified although still illegal.
assistant
Is it ever right to break the law?
user
It may be necessary to break the law in order to prevent a greater evil or wrong from occurring. For example, if you heard your neighbor was plotting to kill an innocent person, it may be right to interfere and go to the police even though breaking into their house is technically against the law. Similarly, if someone is being physically abused and calling out for help but the police are too slow in responding, it may be necessary for a bystander to step in and help despite knowingly violating an actual law.
assistant