Reviewing An Interview With Elie Wiesel

What is “ethical knowledge”

“Ethical knowledge” is not only understanding all current events and conflicts, but also using the information known to help those in need. It is as necessary as intellectual knowledge, because it is the understanding of a problem and putting forth action to better the situation. It enables human beings to help one another. Remaining indifferent completely disregards “ethical knowledge.” As Elie Wiesel stated, “Whatever we do must be in moral terms” and doing nothing can be perceived as immoral. If one knows of a predicament, he must try to help resolve the issue at hand to the best of his ability.

Crash of the Challenger as an example

They used the crash of the Challenger as an example of missing ethical knowledge, because the scientists working on the shuttle were too focused on making progress. Therefore, they forgot to evaluate their ethical choices. They never asked themselves if the success of the mission was worth risking the lives of so many incredible astronauts. Although the scientists worked on and checked every piece of the shuttle, an accident still occurred and resulted in many deaths. Elie Wiesel declared that every life is sacred. Perhaps if the scientist used more “ethical knowledge” and weighed the risks against the potential outcomes of the mission, these tragic deaths would have never taken place.

Danger in over-focusing on scientific progress

Cite another example that is mentioned in the interview. The potential moral danger in over-focusing on scientific progress is expressing less concerns over the risks of countless lives. For example, missiles were created to advance science and to be used as defense. However, if an American missile was accidently launched to Russia, this would result in numerous deaths. Russia would then send its own missile to the United States, killing many Americans. Although the advancements made in science are important, all humans must stop and contemplate the dangerous possibilities.

Statement which had an impression on you

During his interview, Elie Wiesel said, “We don’t realize how indifferent we are, simply because we cannot be a little bit indifferent.” The sad truth of this statement left a strong impression on me. Remaining indifferent to the problems of the world is immoral and everyone should put effort to support those who need it most. Unfortunately, many issues exist in the world. If one was to help solve them all, he would have no time for his personal life. Nevertheless, one should regularly spare time to help the less fortunate. This can range from small acts such as donating money to charity, to bigger actions like publicly speaking out against world issues. There are many topics to discuss. For instance, Elie Wiesel speaks about “ethical knowledge” and how it should be more commonly applied to everyday life.

Issues that need more moral attention

All issues in today’s society need more application of “ethical knowledge” and moral attention. Whether the problem is a matter of science or any other world issues, every single issue must be evaluated with morals kept in mind. After all, every single life is sacred and deaths resulting because of carelessness or the absence of “ethical knowledge” is tragic. One predicament that requires more moral attention is the injustice jailing of people in South Africa. I chose this issue because I am saddened by how unfair it is. People should be able to live out their lives and speak their mind without worrying about being jailed by the government. This is a basic human right that the government cannot take away. My heart goes out to the people suffering from this predicament.