We should act for the common good

Somehow, we’ve lost the concept of common good; an ancient concept that examines what’s good for the individual and community. Some Americans see themselves as rugged individuals who can take care of themselves without anyone’s help. I see that as a grand illusion. Unless an individual can truly live without help from anyone, including having the ability to create all their own tools, housing, clothing, medicines, food, etc., then that individual depends on others.

We are meant to live in a mutually caring community. We’re dependent on each other, and on each other’s goodness. The common good of the community depends on the truthfulness and goodness of the citizens and vice versa.

We’re to look out for each other. We’re locally dependent on the fire, police and sheriffs’ departments to watch out for our common safety and security. We depend on our medical and pharmaceutical systems for our physical well-being. Yes, there are bad actors everywhere to hold accountable. When someone pursues pure self-interest with no care for the common good of individuals, community, state, and country, destructive results follow.

It appears that we have a few bad actors who say whatever provides them an audience. There is no accounting for truth, for the common good, for the measurable benefit to our society. What are the consequences for those whose actions have, at the barest minimum, caused harm to so many?

Karen Carlton

Waukon