To demonstrate various aspects of ethical and legal deliberation, read and discuss the following case.

There is a raging river that can be crossed only by boat. The only boat is owned and operated by a person we shall call A (in order to protect the innocent as well as t guilty). On the same side of the river, X is deeply and sincerely in love with a person, C, on the other side of the river. X goes to A and asks to be taken across the river, offering to pay for the service. A decline will sleep with A. Person X refuses, of course (1), but argues and then pleads with A to name some other he money, but agrees to take X across the river if X price. A, however, remains firm.

Person X leaves but returns a second day to seek a way across the river. Rem as adamant as before. In frustration, X seeks out a third person, B, who hears the situation sympathetically, agreeing that A is certainly a rogue. But B says, "I have other matters to deal with just now and cannot help you.

In desperation, X goes to A a third time, only to be met with the same deal for the trip across the river. X finally agrees to the price and sleeps with A, who then delivers X across the river as promised.

X and C are joyously reunited until C asks how X got across the river. X truthfully replies, "I had to sleep with A to earn the trip across the river." C replies indignantly, "Out of my life! I will have nothing to do with one who holds honor and principle so lightly!"

X, of course, is frustrated and desperate again, and appeals to another person, D who replies, "I understand and am deeply sympathetic. I'd do anything I can to help you." (The curtain falls.) (ASPA, n.d.)

Following your discussion of the case itself, consider to what extent the discussion reflected moral relativism, utilitarianism, or deontology. Then, reconsider the case, following the steps of ethical deliberation presented in this chapter. Clarify the facts, find basic principles, and analyze the arguments. How could you establish a moral action?