When asked to do something we should at once ask ourselves, Is
it right? and when once that is determined one line of action should be
clear.
An argument which aims to answer the question, Is it expedient?
presupposes that there are at least two lines of action each of which is
right. It aims to prove that one course of action will bring greater
advantages than any other. Taking all classes of people into consideration
we shall find that they are arguing more questions of expediency than of
any other kind. Every one is looking for advantages either to himself or
to those in whom he is interested. A question of expediency should never
be separated from the question of right. In determining either our own
course of action or that which we attempt to persuade another to follow,
we should never forget the presupposition of a question of expediency that
either course is right.
EXERCISES
1. Name five questions the right or wrong of which you have been called
upon to decide.
2. Name five similar questions that are likely to arise in every one's
experience.
3. Name five questions of right concerning which opinions very often
differ.
4. Is an action that is right for one person ever wrong for another?
+Theme CXII.+--_Write out the reasons for or against one of the
following:_--
1. Should two pupils ever study together?
2. Is a lie ever justifiable?
3. Was Shylock's punishment too severe?
4.
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