VARIOUS FORMS OF THEFT
Master Jun Hong Lu: The second precept is abstaining from stealing, which includes seizing things by force. This is because everything in this world involves a transfer of sovereignty under its terms.
Hence, making an untrue claim to gain benefit is considered an act of stealing. This includes demanding monetary reward when you have not performed any kind deeds nor done anything in helping others. Such an action is considered stealing.
Copyright infringement and claiming credit for things that you did not do is another example of stealing. There are many middlemen who collect handling fees from their customers but fail to deliver what they promise. This is also considered stealing.
Sometimes, we think, it is good for us to have an appetite for things in life, not knowing that it is only when we benefit others, we are truly benefitting ourselves. If everyone only thinks of their self-interests and bears no regards for the interests of others, this selfish behaviour does not differ much from an act of stealing.
Source: Master Jun Hong Lu’s Buddhism In Plain Terms (Radio Program), Volume 1 Chapter 15
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