What is done under the fear of greater evils is partly voluntary, and partly involuntary.

Such actions are voluntary in the sense of being a man's own actions; involuntary in that they are not chosen on their own account; being praised or blamed according to the circumstances.

There are cases where it is difficult to say which of two conflicting pressures ought to preponderate, and compulsion is an excuse often misapplied: but compulsion, in its strict sense, is not strength of motive at all; it is taking the action entirely out of our own hands.

As regards Ignorance, a difference is made.

Ignorance of a general rule is matter for censure; ignorance of particular circumstances may be excused.