In order to assess the moral character of an action or individual, it is important to consider it against a moral authority. Evil is intrinsically linked to the concept of good and free will, as something deemed evil would inherently contradict the nature of a higher moral power.

For instance, it is necessary to question whether pedophilia is endorsed or condemned in religious texts such as the Bible. Given that pedophilia is universally viewed as morally wrong, it can be classified as an inherently evil act.