The utopian city of Omelas and the abandoned child in the basement, both in Ursula K. Le Guin’s The Ones Who Walk Away from Omelas, bring the question of happiness within a society and morality to the forefront with great force. This contrast is more striking because it reflects the cost of group happiness and the reasons for its need.

First, Le Guin’s Omelas presents a surreal concept of rejoicing people in a city filled with festivities, music, and laughter. The existence of the “sacrificial child,” who must live in dirt and poverty for the city’s success, challenges this strange notion of perfection. One wonders what kind of happiness is celebrated when the cost is such a great sin. “Their happiness, the beautiful city… are all sickeningly dependent on the wretchedness of that child.”

Secondly, whether they accept or regret it, the Omelas citizens’ reactions also address ethical nuances. Most people adopt and normalize these views, which reflect deep psychological disturbances about the expectations society deems fair. The citizens explain their acceptance as “tragic goodness that comes hand-in-hand with balance,” which raises ethical concerns about society embracing injustice when the repercussions are less than ideal. It brings up questions of self-advantage in numbers.

The final section of this text delves into the concept of “ones who walk away,” who serve as fundamental moral witnesses, offering guidance on how to address the existing moral failings in society. Even though they don’t judge themselves, they don’t agree with the city’s rules and prefer the unknown. The fact that they left means they will never enjoy the comfort of oppression, even if it means hardship. The narrator admits the destination of these individuals is unknown, but their choice indicates that they are individuals who do not believe in utilitarianism but rather follow principles.

Through these examples, Le Guin uses the idyllic yet dependent Omelas to challenge readers to reflect on societal values and question whether true happiness can coexist with willful ignorance or acceptance of suffering.

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