Under the rules of a society that cannot distinguish between profit and profiteering, between money defined as necessity and money defined as luxury, murder is occasionally obligatory and always permissible.

Summary

This quote suggests that in a society where there is no clear distinction between ethical profit and exploitative profiteering, where money is both seen as a necessity and a luxury, there can be situations where murder becomes obligatory and acceptable. It implies that under such circumstances, individuals may feel compelled to commit acts of violence in order to achieve financial gain or maintain their place in society. The quote emphasizes the moral decay that can occur when materialism and the blurred lines between legitimate and unethical wealth become prevalent.

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