If thousands could be saved is it okay for one to be sacrificed? When thinking about social justice, do we apply that to an overarching "greater good" or is social justice more about defending the rights of every human? Should we consider more individuals or society and humanity as a whole? The use of water-boarding for the "greater good" was largely responded to with outrage from civilians. However, if the torture of one could save a million others, is it not worth it to torture the one and save the million? These questions I pose lead to the idea that the ends justify the means.
My response to my questions would be that no matter the benefit of an evil act, wrong is still wrong. The easy solution is not always the best solution. The boundaries of society set by law must be held firm. In fighting for social justice, I would say our end goal is striving for the betterment of humanity as a whole but that end must be achieved in a just way. Justice is not without justice without justice. So in conclusion, regardless of a motive of striving for the greater good, leaders must follow the rules of society or justice will not be justice.
3 comments:
Extremely interesting topic. I think it definitely becomes a sticky situation when it involves seemingly insignificant changes or violations of laws. I would have to agree though that to maintain justice you have to go about it in a just way, or else you are defeating what you are fighting for. Once you violate the smallest thing it begins an accepted cycle of injustice in the name of "justice" which, when really thought about, is a messed up system.
It's completely true. As much as leadership involves decisions that affect a greater number of people, what makes a good leader great is, in fact, his principles. But I'd like to suggest that this concept isn't circumstantial to complex decisions but rather, universal - applying to both the macro scale of humanity and to every individual, his heart. When one loses his sense of self, of ideals, of love, and of justice, no achievement or accomplishment can be fulfilling to his soul. Especially in our modern society where individualism, relativism, and reductionism prevail over self-sacrifice and philanthropy, it's important to keep in mind the values that keep us going and help maintain our humanity.
Strange, my comment got cut off.
Every great leader has a strong inner conviction. But that character is not and should not be limited only to great leaders. And to gain such certainty of values, it's necessary to question, reflect, stumble, and grow.
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