Let help be optional, based on values, rather than duty oriented

Reader comment on: Budgets and Brothers

Submitted by Gideon Reich (United States), Jul 19, 2011 16:50

I think the important point that Brook and Watson are trying to get across is that an unchosen duty to help anybody in need means that your life is not your own. It belongs to any person in need or their representatives that bring the claims of the needy to you.

I'm quite sure, however, that neither Brook nor Watson (nor Ayn Rand) meant that it is never proper to help someone. Far from it -- if people are a value in your life (and in a normal situation, many people should be), of course you would be willing to help support the people that represent your highest values most. For example, your children and spouse, as well as immediate family (everything else being equal) and friends and even acquantainces and strangers in the appropriate circumstances. But the help should be regarded as an aspect of your integrity, and general benevolence, not as an altruistic duty.


Note: Comments are moderated by the editor and are subject to editing.

Other reader comments on this item

Title By Date
Obligations vs. duties [278 words]Don WatkinsJul 19, 2011 23:58
⇒ Let help be optional, based on values, rather than duty oriented [156 words]Gideon ReichJul 19, 2011 16:50
Which is it?
[w/response] [183 words]
John GillisJul 18, 2011 17:55
Being one's actual brother's keeper [283 words]John GillisJul 18, 2011 18:36

Comment on this item

Mark my comment as a response to Let help be optional, based on values, rather than duty oriented by Gideon Reich

Email me if someone replies to my comment

Note: Comments are moderated by the editor and are subject to editing.