Moral justification refers to the reasoning that individuals use to defend their actions as being right or acceptable, even if those actions may typically be viewed as wrong. This concept often involves framing a decision in a way that highlights its positive outcomes or aligns it with a set of ethical principles, allowing individuals to feel justified in their choices.
People may use moral justification to rationalize behaviors such as lying, cheating, or stealing by emphasizing the greater good or necessity behind their actions. This process can help individuals maintain a positive self-image while engaging in actions that conflict with their moral beliefs.