When doing my research about World Hunger, I discovered the viewpoints of various different people on this topic. While reading the article “An Introduction to the Moral Issues,” they discussed both pros and cons on the situation. I was now reading the part where they were against helping other countries. The Liberation Article stated a quote that said, “no one is entitled to take my life from me, but no one is obligated to support my existence.” Then we would now proceed to the Particularity Argument that argued there is something suspicious about a moral theory that requires us to care so much about strangers that we diminish that quality of life for those nearest and dearest to us. This argues that we cannot put others before the people who are here in our own country, but in my opinion why not? There will always be someone willing to lend a helping hand, but most countries do not have that because everyone is doing just as bad there. So why be greedy? It kind of made me reflect on the video Michael presented for his Ethics in a Favorite Song. We today are so caught up in greed, which we forget to help others and the virtues that matter most.
Thank you very much for using my video in your post. It makes me feel good that it could help someone--such a powerful message that needs to be heard.
ReplyDeleteNevertheless, I see the confusion you're having about why we need to be greedy. In all honesty, people are feeling as though being an American and making your way in the world equals entitlement and priority over others. While we don't like to think of ourselves this way, what ends up happening is that subconsciously, I believe we give in to the notion that somehow our mega-millions are never enough, and we reach for more. The problem with that is, as we reach for more, the limited resource we have on the planet shrinks for others. It's really a lot about balance and moderation--dare I say something that will never happen--so is it even possible to cure world hunger? Probably not, but it's a nice thought. People would have to have a "come to Jesus"/epiphany moment to realize the error of their ways. The chances of that happening any time soon--slim to none in my opinion...but more power to you.
Maya has noted a real dilemma: we can't help everyone in need, so how do we priortize whom we help with our limited resources? For me, being a Christian really helps here. As St. Paul, notes, we all have different gifts and resources, and I believe we are all called to help in certain areas. I ended up helping at Angola because I prayed/listened intently for the guidance of the Holy Spirit to lead me where I belonged. That's what I "heard/" Can't prove it, but I think my being there had has a positive impact.
ReplyDeleteI agree with you. Why can't we help the people in our country while also helping the people in other countries. The people in other countries need our help more because they have no one looking out for them.
ReplyDelete