In this case, I’m referring to the notion that we all make minor sacrifices in our daily interactions in service of a “greater good” for everyone.
“Following the rules” would be a simplified version of what I’m talking about, I suppose. But also keeping an awareness/attitude about "How will my choices affect the people around me in this moment? “Common courtesy”, “situational awareness”, etc…
I don’t know that it’s a “new” phenomenon by any means, I just seem to have an increasing (subjective) awareness of it’s decline of late.
I was literally just reading about social contract theory the other day, brushing up because it’s been a while since my political philosophy coursework in undergrad.
I was thinking this is definitely something everyone should brush up on, because it seems to be something many of us have forgotten about.
We live in a society, together, and give up certain freedoms in exchange for stable lifestyles lived without fear.
I think people have forgotten about everyone’s individual responsibility, their mandate, to uphold their part of this social contract. I think people have forgotten what shame is.
Great post.
Unfortunately, the people that need this reminder the most are also generally staunchly anti-intellectualism.
This is, I think, the major motivator for terrible behavior. Well said.
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