People ordinarily refrain from behaving in ways that violate their core moral
standards because such conduct will bring self-censure. However, in some institutional
role functions, such as military combat and state executions, the taking of human life
presents a grave moral predicament. Intentional infliction of death and destruction can,
therefore, exact a heavy emotional toll and leave a troubled and haunted life by those who
have to do it. The challenge is to explain how individuals who are caring and
compassionate in other aspects of their lives can perform roles that require them to take a
human life.