"The more we view ourselves as self-made and self-sufficient, the less likely we are to care for the fate of those less fortunate than ourselves."
— Ethics in Bricks (@EthicsInBricks) October 18, 2021
- Michael Sandel pic.twitter.com/tq1pRmsX5B
"Inequalities are permissible when they maximize, or at least all contribute to, the long term expectations of the least fortunate group in society."
— Ethics in Bricks (@EthicsInBricks) October 18, 2021
- John Rawls pic.twitter.com/EzQV3MgkOW
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ReplyDeleteI suppose the quote by Michael Sandel is true for some people. Whenever someone realizes that they are self sufficient, they can develop the attitude of "well if I did it and succeeded, why can't they?" I think a lot of people almost forget that not everyone has the same opportunities as they did growing up. Not everyone's situation is the same, and everyone lacks in one or more aspects of their life. This mindset can almost be detrimental because the people who consider themselves to be self sufficient can also develop a selfless way of thinking. They could not help anyone because of the same thinking of "well if I did it then why can't they?" It creates almost a vicious cycle in my opinion.
Michael Sandel's quote prompts an interesting debate for those that believe humans, like other living beings are purely self-interested in pursuit of bettering their circumstances at the most basic animalistic level. What benefit does caring for the less fortunate benefit us? Does caring for the less fortunate change our standing amongst others in our species? Is it compensation for our selfish desires or a means to improve our social standing?
ReplyDeleteI agree! The quote posits that being self-centered or otherwise apathetic towards others is a learned trait rather than a natural one.
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