The Quasi-Integral Parts of Justice

The quasi-integral parts of justice are the directivesinvolved in the exercise of justice, namely, “do good,“and “avoid evil.” These directives of the natural lawindicate what is requisite for the act of justice. They aretherefore called “parts” or “quasi-parts” ofjusticeitself. Justice seeks equality of good between a manand God, a man and his neighbors as individuals, a man and hiscommunity. Now, “doing good” sets up this equality;“avoiding evil” saves the equality already set up.

Transgression violates the rule of “avoidevil.” It is an act against a negative precept, a preceptwhich says, “Thou shalt not,” or has the force of suchprohibition.

Omission violates the rule of “dogood.” It is the failure to obey a positive precept.

Usually, it is easier to avoid evil than to stironeself to do good. Therefore, it is usually a graver sin totransgress than to omit, since one may, with the smaller effort,refrain from transgression.