Not A Poll: Does Motivation Affect Morality?

[abaris]

Given the circumstances, I'd give both a pass. The cash is lying on the floor or a bench without anyone claiming it. Under different circumstances, say, grabbing something from a shop or somebodies pocket, I would only look more favorably at the one trying to feed her child. Might be that both are acting immorally, but one of them has a valid excuse, while the other has none.