Ursula K. Le Guin’s short story “The Ones Who Walk Away from Omelas” raises complex moral questions by contrasting the happy city of Omelas with the suffering of one child. This contrast serves to explore the nature of social happiness and morality.

Omelas is presented as a utopian city where joy and well-being reign. The inhabitants enjoy life, full of happiness and harmony. However, behind this idyll lies a terrible truth: the happiness of the city depends on the suffering of one child, who lives in terrible conditions. Le Guin makes us consider whether it is moral to sacrifice one for the happiness of many. All the inhabitants are aware of the child’s existence and his suffering, which highlights the moral compromise on which their happiness is built.

The reactions of the inhabitants to this situation play a key role. Most accept it as a necessary evil, believing that their happiness justifies the suffering of the child. However, some cannot come to terms with this injustice and leave Omelas. Their departure symbolizes the rejection of the utilitarian idea that the happiness of the many justifies the suffering of one. Le Guin asks an important question: can true happiness exist if it is built on the suffering of others?

The story also encourages us to think about the nature of morality. It raises questions about our participation in injustice and the price we pay for our happiness. Le Guin shows a society that thrives on the innocent and makes us think about the moral choices we make in our lives. The contrast between Omelas and the child becomes a symbol of real moral issues, prompting us to examine our values ​​and principles more deeply.

Ultimately, Le Guin explores social happiness and morality through this contrast. She challenges readers to consider the moral compromises they are willing to make in pursuit of happiness. The story encourages us to rethink what we consider acceptable and to think about how our actions affect others.

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