Science-fiction writer John Scalzi compares the events at Penn State to Ursula LeGuin’s “The Ones Who Walk Away From Omelas.” His comments are refreshingly direct. Tthe invocation of Omelas is apt, with a few qualifications. There was only one child who suffered for Omelas, and here it was failing to save the child(ren) that sacrificed utopia. Cowardice not only failed the children, it ultimately failed the hallowed football program those who kept silent sought to protect.
Note: There’s a vibrant comment thread on Scalzi’s post, so if you wish to comment, do so there.
(Hat tip: Brian Leiter)
Comments are closed.