'The Lord of the Rings and Philosophy'

[Arwen1858]

The Phantom said:

I don't have my Bible handy now, but I recall a quote about choosing sin and that it would yield "pleasure for a season".

It's in Hebrews 11:25, talking about Moses. It says:

v.24 By faith, Moses, when he was come to years, refused to be called the son of Pharoah's daughter; v. 25 Choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God, that to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season.

I think that when someone is going to commit an immoral act, say he had a way to steal some money without anyone ever knowing, he would know it was wrong, yet would still take some pleasure in it. He would enjoy being able to buy a huge house, and a fancy car. He would love to drive his car and show it off to people. He would enjoy the money to some degree. But only for a season. His conscience would still prick him at times, and it would also be harder for him knowing the money was gotten through ill means.
Mister Underhill said:

the question is, what is the result of this sort of lifestyle? Is it better and more fulfilling than a lifestyle spent in the pursuit of virtue? I think not.

I don't think it could be more fulfilling. To fulfill means to satisfy, and while there may be some enjoyment from whatever is gained through the immoral act, I don't think it could be fulfilling.