The Moral of Purse Snatching

Is it okay to do bad things to bad people? In this work of philosophical short fiction, the narrator, on a second date, finds himself intrigued by Everly, a woman who expresses intense dislike for a political figure dining at the same restaurant. When Everly provocatively suggests stealing the politician’s purse, the narrator agrees. Despite the advice of an AI app deeming theft unethical, and a growing awareness of the moral ambiguity, the narrator is drawn to the idea of performing a “Robin Hood” act. The story explores themes of personal morality, the subjective nature of justice, the influence of social and romantic dynamics on ethical choices, and the rationalizations people construct to justify their actions.