A argument in the Senate between Sherrod Brown (D-OH) and Dan Sullivan (R-AK) illustrates how people weigh the rights and obligations. Brown asked Sullivan to wear a mask while in the chamber; Sullivan refused.
Sullivan, as have many Trump supporters was likely asserting his right not to be inconvenienced. He is correct that there is no statue that compels him to wear a mask and that he is therefore in his right to refuse a request to do so. Similarly, Mitch McConnell is correct when he asserts that Donald Trump is within his legal rights to explore all available avenues to try to turn the election in his favor.
But often rights and obligations are in opposition. Sullivan's assertion of his right comes at the expense of his moral obligation to protect others. Similarly, Trump's assertion of his right to challenge the outcome of the election in court comes at the expense of his moral obligation not to undermine faith in the cornerstone of democracy, the electoral process.
Acting within your rights does not mean you are doing the right thing.
No comments:
Post a Comment