Some philosophical questions (and my answers)

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1. Is shoplifting any different to any other kind of theft?

I don't think shoplifting is as bad as stealing from someone's home. Taking an individual's belongings may cause them to struggle to re-buy the stolen items. A large company such as a shop or supermarket make large profits everyday and can easily afford to replace missing goods. Going into someone's home and stealing is far worse because it causes untold emotional and psychological stress and harm to the occupants.

2. Why do people who can afford to buy things shoplift them instead?

People steal because it gives them an adrenaline rush. The risk of being caught is exciting. There is also the fact that many people aren't bothered about buying stolen goods as long as they're cheaper than they would be in the shops. This means that shoplifters can make a good profit themselves by selling on stolen goods.

The link below has some information about shoplifting and some funny comments at the bottom about people's experiences of shoplifting.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/magazine/4477596.stm

3.Is it prostitution to take money from someone who is expecting sex, but then not to supply it?

I don't think this constitutes prostitution. It is pure theft. However, some people may argue that someone who does this has already valued themselves by agreeing a price.

4. If it isn't then is it more or less socially acceptable?

It is more socially respectable to not go through with sex for money (but still take the money) than it is to prostitute yourself. However, I think it is important to consider reasons why someone would prostitute themselves.

5. When does a concerned interest in someone's activities become stalking?

Stalking is when someone hacks into your accounts (e-mail, telephone etc) or follows you about. Even if this is meant in a harmless way (they might fancy the person and just want to get to know them), stalking is still stalking and is not the way to go about things.

6. Are some kinds off observance allowable and appropriate?

I think anyone would feel threatened or strange about someone watching their behaviour, tracking their moves or hacking into their accounts. However, if some people like someone they may just be too shy to actually speak to them face to face. Not all 'stalking' is meant in a sinister way.