An action performed out of respect for morality cannot also be an action motivated by concern for oneself. An action motivated by concern for oneself cannot be deserving of moral condemnation. The moral praiseworthiness of an action can be judged only according to standards that refer to the circumstances of the person acting. Some actions that are essentially honest are not morally praiseworthy.
It is morally praiseworthy to be honest only if one is honest out of respect for morality. Strictly speaking, ttherefore, Downing did not act in a manner worthy of such praise when he told the judge the truth about his business partner ' s fraudulence. Downing was motivated by concern for his own well-being---even though what he did was certainly honest.
The conclusion drawn above follows logically if which one of the following is assumed?