Chapter 3: Values and Morals:Guidelines for living - Psychological ...

Is it morally just and fair for me to be free to have plenty to
eat, nice clothes, luxuries, time and money for fun, TV, and
comforts, while others in the world are starving, uneducated,
and in poor health?
____ ____
Yes No
About 50% in 1970 used to say yes, in 1990 about 75% say yes, it
is fair. Then I asked them to give their reasons for answering yes or
no. I have summarized those reasons into ten statements so you can
more carefully think through your reaction to being self-oriented or
others-oriented. Indicate the degree to which you agree or disagree
with these statements by rating each one from 1 to 5.
Statements
1. To be so self-centered that I would forget the hungry, sick,
uneducated, unhappy people in the world is rejecting the
Golden Rule (do unto others as you would have them do unto
you). I could not live with myself and do this, since I consider
one of the highest goals of life to be "...Love one another..."
(John 15:12).
Agree Disagree
1 2 3 4 5
2. The more advantages I have--or hope to have someday--the
more obligated I am to give to others and to fight for equal
opportunities for everyone. "From each according to his/her
ability; to each according to his/her needs (communist motto)."
"Don't just sit there in your hot tub and say, 'There's nothing I
can do about the poor' (student comment)."
Agree Disagree
1 2 3 4 5
3. It is only fair for me to share my resources with others until
everyone has their basic needs met. "He who has two coats, let
him share with him who has none..."(Lk 3:13). Frankly, I don't
think I would freely (on my own) give up my advantages and
luxuries, but I should vote for a government that would make
me (and others) do what is right.
Agree Disagree
1 2 3 4 5
4. I am very confused about this issue. I want to help others, but
I don't know what to do. It is a terrible waste when people
starve, or a good brain is neglected, but what can I, as an
individual, do? I'd really like to know.
29