But the means to it matter as much, because they bring their own sets of consequences with them (and that is more than often ignored or overlooked, for "short term benefits").
The justification of an action is as much in the fruits, as in the roots. Both come hand in hand ultimately.
(edit to add the following:)
Then, as to judge/discern, I can't say I have a definite, certain receipt. I fear and keep away from those who say they do have one.
I don't mean to advertise the "basis of my morality". I'm not that good. I have a set of principles, that come mostly from my (Catholic, practicing) upbringing (but that don't match at all what most "Christians in the US" showcase, if that can give an idea) + an inner desire for peace, balance and truth (as hard and harsh it could be) that many take for naiveté, + an acute critical look for bullshit, I guess. But that's not very telling, is it? :p
Really? You don't think that whether people are better off matters?
Or fundamentally, whether a thing is justified or not matters?
Now I'm curious as to the basis of your morality. Could you explain how you would judge a thing to be right or not? (this sounds rather attacking, I'm not, just really interested).
I expect I've got wires crossed but I'd like to uncross them.