This was the right thing to do. There was no way I could participate in the tournament, and they’d already paid for everything. This way I’m happy and they’re happy. Everyone wins!
I got a bit squinty-eyed, but I couldn’t see a flaw. We both agreed it was wrong that he didn’t prepare. But once that was done, was there nothing wrong with what he did, if consequences are all that matter?
Your friends actions seem consequential for future debate club decisions regarding funding travel for other members. It’s not even clear if his personal benefits outweighed the higher trust and reputation he would have enjoyed among the debate club members had he put in even a mediocre effort.
It’s hard to imagine anyone perceiving a net benefit to his actions if taking the long term view of a few years or more.
This doesn’t seem like the same class of examples as having to decide on grandma’s fate, where some might.
Your friends actions seem consequential for future debate club decisions regarding funding travel for other members. It’s not even clear if his personal benefits outweighed the higher trust and reputation he would have enjoyed among the debate club members had he put in even a mediocre effort.
It’s hard to imagine anyone perceiving a net benefit to his actions if taking the long term view of a few years or more.
This doesn’t seem like the same class of examples as having to decide on grandma’s fate, where some might.