Major themes in literature often relate back to the idea of “good vs. evil.” For example, in novels you can often find a brave hero facing off against a wicked villain to teach the reader that being good and doing the right thing is what is best for society. These stories usually show the hero as being all good and the villain as being all bad, and the choice to do the right thing is always very clear. However, how does this apply to the real world? The article, “A teen and a trolley reveal society’s dark side,” explores this debate. Examine the article and determine whether you believe that people can be completely good or whether you think there is a dark side to us all. Explain your reasoning
In the article, "A teen and a trolley reveal society's dark side," the author discusses an ethical dilemma known as the trolley problem, where a person must decide whether to divert a runaway trolley onto a track where it will kill one person instead of five. The author examines various responses to this scenario, showing that people's decisions are often influenced by factors such as emotions and personal beliefs.
This article suggests that in reality, the idea of being completely good or completely evil may not be so clear-cut. People are complex beings with a mixture of good and bad qualities, and our actions are often influenced by a combination of factors. The trolley problem highlights the ethical dilemmas that individuals face in difficult situations, where there may not always be a clear-cut right or wrong answer.
I believe that there is a dark side to all of us, as humans are capable of both good and evil actions. We are influenced by our emotions, beliefs, and external circumstances, which can lead us to make decisions that may not always align with the idea of being completely good. However, I also believe that people have the capacity for growth, empathy, and self-awareness, which can help us strive towards being better individuals and making more ethical choices in our lives.
Ultimately, the debate on whether people can be completely good or whether there is a dark side to us all is a complex one. While we may not always live up to the ideal of being purely good, it is important to acknowledge our flaws and strive towards being the best version of ourselves. By recognizing and addressing our dark side, we can work towards creating a more just and compassionate society.