In my opinion, the second option is a manifestation of morality. But is it really? If you intervene, there will be a selfish motive behind it, a desire to show yourself, to elevate yourself in the eyes of some members of the group.
Yes, I often think about this too... is it coming from within, from the heart, or is it just a desire to appear better? ...and can the first case be pure, or is it always mixed with the second?