Although there is much going on in the business world, it is difficult to ignore the recent tragedy in Haiti which has the world's immediate attention. All week there has been nonstop coverage and talk about the devastating magnitude 7.0 earthquake that struck Haiti's capital last Tuesday that has left the people in chaos. It is estimated that around 3 million people are in need of emergency help and around 65,000 have lost their lives. (www.usatoday.com/news/world) Many, dead and alive, are yet to be unburied from the rubble of buildings and homes. Survivors are desperately walking around the streets lost, lonely, without food or basic necessities. Before the earthquake, Haiti was known for its poverty. Much of the homes and buildings were not properly built and caused them to collapse that much quicker during the earthquake.
If Aristotle were alive today, he would be pleased with the worldwide response that has immediately put their promises of help in action. British Prime Minister Gordon Brown has stated, "Haiti has moved to the center of the world's thoughts and the world's compassion." Many countries worldwide have made significant efforts in the aftermath of the earthquake sending military, experts, supplies, food, water, and medical assistance. Aristotle most certainly would not agree with the income and the lavish lifestyles of the rich and famous however in the wake of this tragedy many of those celebrities are donating their money and using their fame for the good of getting the message out there that much help from everyone is needed. Celebrities like Angelina Jolie, Brad Pitt, Alyssa Milano, Sandra Bullock, Gisele Bundchen, Modonna, George Clooney, Oprah, fomer Presidents George Bush and Bill Clinton, Wyclef Jean and many more have all made substantial donations and are personally getting involved in the relief. During the current U.S. recession, many Americans have lost their jobs or have had to cut down on luxuries but yet have contributed the little that they can to help others in much more need. For anyone that would like to join in the great efforts to help the people of Haiti, http://www.yele.org/ is a foundation created by Haiti native Wyclef Jean. The website gives information on how people can help.
I do agree with you that that we do see a world-wide response of help through the tragedy in Haiti. And yes, Aristotle would definitely commend that and would be more than happy to see everyone helping and putting in effort to help put Haiti back on its feet. When we turn towards the view of the celebrities, although Aristotle would not like their lavish lifestyle and living with more than what they need, I do think that he would think something else as well. I think that you can also say that though Aristotle does not approve of their extravagant lifestyles, he would be happy of the fact that they are using that extra wealth that they have for good deeds. They are sharing the money with people in need of help, and Aristotle would say this is good and sharing is about. I am sure that even though the celebrities live such a extravagant life, a lot of them might be donating and giving back to their communities and to those that need help, just like they are doing to help Haiti.
ReplyDeleteI agree with you that the enthusiasm from around the world would please Aristotle and his ideology would not agree with the plentiness of those celebrities. However, I think there need to be somebody with excess so that they are able make such substantial donations immediately. I am sure Haiti's tragedy would change Aristotle's ideology if he were alive today.
ReplyDeleteI agree with you that Aristotle would agree with the nation's overall response to the disaster that occurred in Haiti. Aristotle believes we should use our excess money to assisted others in need, as many people are doing. The earthquake has completely destructed a poverished country, leaving them without basic necessities. I think it is wonderful that so many have recognized the distraught the earthquake has caused, and are doing their part in helping out.
ReplyDeleteAristotle would be satisfied with the compassion humans have shown in the wake of a tragedy. He would see the money being given to buy supplies and help build up Haiti's infrastructure as a way to help them live well. I also think St. Thomas Aquinas would be pleased because one of his beliefs was to give to charity. By people giving monetary aid and supplies to the Haitians who many people have no direct contact with, they are following St. Aquinas’ ideology.
ReplyDeleteAristole would be thrilled at the response Americans are giving to Haiti. With the tragedy that has occured in Haiti, Aristotle would praise that we are giving back to those in need. I liked how you metioned that even though people are out of jobs and our country is in a recesion that people are still giving.
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