Should we try to make sure everyone everywhere isn't mistreated at all because of our actions and inactions?

Question

In a way that doesn't do any harm and does good for everyone and prevents harm from comming to anyone? In order to truly do good without doing wrong?

Answer 1

Yes I agree. Even though it couldnever be, there is nothing at all wrong living this way yourself. All we can do, is our part, and it will help at least a little. We have to start somewhere, why not with ourselves and set a good example for everyone else.

Answer 2

This is one of the conundrums of moral philosophy and is sometimes illustrated by the murderous pursuer scenario.

You are walking down the street and someone runs by saying, "Help me hide, they want to kill me. Don't let them know you saw me."

After they run up, the murderer(s) comes up and says, "Did you see someone running this way? I must find them."

Now, if you tell the truth and don't lie (a moral good) you will facilitate the murderer. However, if you lie (which is generally accepted as bad) you will potentially save a life. However this will do harm to the pursuer, as your lie will keep them from accomplishing their goal.

On a less extreme level, it is hard to think of any action that doesn't do anyone anywhere harm. Even simple consumption deprives others of the use of an item. And at what cost should I endeavor to provide food, clean water, etc to everyone everywhere?

Answer 3

You know you could have placed this question in the politics or immigration category. I would enjoy reading those answers. What you are describing is called Utopia; something which could never exist. Every issue in life has many sides, a few sides good for many, okay for some and downright wrong for others. Even in philosophy the concept of Utopia can never be achieved.

Answer 4

You have a point.

I have only recently realized that I don't want to be an "occasion of sin" for anyone.

In other words, anger someone because of my insensitivity or actions.

But you know, sometimes you just don't realize. You don't do anything deliberately, but sometimes you say the wrong thing inadvertently due to stupidity. And evryone does that.

Just do the best you can. Don't sweat it if you upset someone. Apologize, you didn't do it deliberately more than likely, so move on. Dont dwell on it. If you can learn from your mistake, then great.

Answer 5

Shoulds are a terrible way to live life. People who live a life of shoulds eventually become bitter.

Feeling bitter about helping another defeats the pupose of helping another.

Answer 6

ability equals responsibility

if we have the ability to act in a morally acceptable manner, we have the responsibility to act in a morally acceptable manner.

this means that we are obligated to the well being of our fellows, and we are responsible for the well being of those who cannot defend themselves, such as children, the poor, and slave laborers in 3rd world countries who manufacture the things we enjoy. we have the ability to stop the genocide in darfur, therefore, we are obligated to do so.

Answer 7

It is called respect and it includes the mental emotional consequences of beliefs imparted to our children. Respect is one of the three primary principles of human existence. Respect will not be utilized until we change perspectives.

Answer 8

It will happen anyways it is all because of well.. the way that world works now if had gone and revolved the other way maybe it wouldn't be so...... the way that it is...

Answer 9

That would be an ideal situation. Too bad it is not practical.

Answer 10

If that pleases you , then sure. But don't judge me if I live differently.