It is only acceptable when in dire situations. It is like most of us believe in the basic goodness of human nature, that nobody in his right frame of mind would do things that may hurt others and if it was done that there must be a a very good reason for doing it. It is like giving the 'bad' person the benefit of the doubt. I think it reflects well of our culture, that we do not judge somebody immediately, and our understanding of a fellow man's travails. It is also reflection on a basic understanding that man is not perfect and may err when in difficult situations.

It is not a license to "do whatever it takes to make a buck". There must be a special circumstance to make it forgivable and acceptable.