Random Ethical Resonances

Twice in the last week I have happened across a statement that resonates with me as strongly as if I had written it myself - proof there is comfort and stimulus in exploring the world of other people's thinking more, which is the goal of this blog. Here are the two examples.

In Charles de Lint's 2003 "Addendum to Afterword" to his 1985 novel Mulengro, addressing the question of political correctness in writing from the point of view of races, genders and situations not our own (after respectfully noting some caveats):

Let the criteria be good writing--books that inform and enlighten us while they tell a story--not the source of the writing. And if that makes me sound naive, so be it. But I'll continue to read as widely as I can, and I'll be enriched by it. And I'll continue to use as large a character palette in my writing as the story requires, because I can't do otherwise and still maintain my integrity to my work.

Author Allan Weiss, on his website, in the section on philosophy. I expressed a kindred sentiment, I think, in my online story "Going Back Out", which is an allegory tale in which Ann berates a young Reetion pilot for giving up her sense of mission because Sevolites can fly harder than she can (a quantitative measure), without considering the cause for which they fly (a qualitative, ethical consideration). The point being that sometimes "what" you are doing has to matter more than the "how much" aspect of your success at it.

I see much moral complacency around me, and it distresses me. Writers are more interested in their careers--in making sales--than taking a potentially costly moral stand. (Weiss)

References

de Lint, C. Mulengro, (2003), New York: Tom Doherty Associates.

Weiss, A. "Philosophy and Ethics" retrieved 25 April 2009 from http://www.allanweiss.com/