Why was Marcus Licinius Crassus viewed as unethical by the Romans?

Marcus Licinius Crassus is often viewed as unethical by the Romans primarily due to his practices during emergencies, particularly his tendency to demand payment before offering assistance. This behavior was seen as exploitative, especially considering that he was a wealthy individual who had the resources to help those in need without expecting compensation. His approach contrasted sharply with the Roman values of duty and community support during times of crisis, leading to a perception of him as selfish and morally dubious.

The other options may reflect negative aspects of his character or actions, but they do not capture the specific sense of betrayal felt by the Roman populace regarding his willingness to profit from their misfortunes. Romans generally expected their elites to act in the interest of the community, particularly when dealing with emergencies where lives could be at stake. Thus, Crassus's demand for payment in such situations solidified his reputation as someone who prioritized his own financial gain over societal ethics.