Navigating Ethical Choices in a Complex World
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Chapter 1: The Joy of Soccer Amidst Ethical Dilemmas
Soccer is more than just a sport for me; it’s an exhilarating experience that transcends my upbringing in Mexico. The remarkable skills and athleticism displayed by professional players captivate me, even during low-scoring matches. I also enjoy the game as an amateur player, often finding myself humbled by the gap between my abilities and those I admire on the field.
As the 2022 FIFA World Cup approaches in Qatar, I grapple with the ethics of engaging with this event. Reports from The Guardian indicate that numerous lives have been lost during the construction of stadiums and other facilities for the tournament, alongside serious allegations of corruption regarding Qatar's selection as the host.
My concerns extend beyond the World Cup.
I drive a gasoline-powered vehicle, fully aware of the detrimental effects fossil fuels have on our environment. My love for Chick-fil-A, particularly their spicy chicken sandwich, is tainted by revelations about the company's financial support for anti-LGBTQ+ initiatives. I still plan to watch the upcoming Top Gun movie, despite the controversies surrounding Tom Cruise, and I used to enjoy watching Aaron Rodgers play until his controversial stance on vaccines emerged. As someone dedicated to public health, that situation was particularly disheartening.
Life presents us with a myriad of choices. How do we navigate these decisions?
As I reflect on these ethical conflicts, the weight of it all can be overwhelming. Everything is interconnected, and often, the comfort of a few comes at the expense of many. While ethical consumption should be the norm, it often isn't, leading us to prioritize products we believe align with our moral values.
Section 1.1: Taking Action Towards Ethical Consumption
Yet, I refuse to remain passive in the face of these dilemmas. A significant portion of my financial resources is directed towards causes I believe in. I support Doctors Without Borders to address global health issues, contribute to the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) for civil rights advocacy, and donate to the MERIT Health Leadership Academy in Baltimore, which helps local youth transition from challenging environments to careers in healthcare.
Subsection 1.1.1: Balancing Personal Choices with Values
I navigate the complexities of enjoying products from companies whose values conflict with mine by supporting organizations that align with my beliefs. For instance, I can choose to root for other quarterbacks besides Aaron Rodgers, and I’ve discovered that Popeye's offers a delightful alternative to my beloved Chick-fil-A sandwich.
As the World Cup draws near, I anticipate watching the games. Having followed every tournament for as long as I can remember, it's also a valuable opportunity to connect with my younger brother. After the recent loss of another sibling, I'm eager to seize every chance to bond with my family. Moreover, the World Cup is a significant cultural event for many worldwide.
Section 1.2: The Complexity of Human Choices
The examples provided are just a glimpse into the moral and ethical challenges I face. There are countless other dilemmas. Attempting to balance every decision with my ethical framework could drive anyone to madness. The best course of action is to avoid certain situations and seek alternatives while striving for justice in the world.
While some may view my actions as hypocritical, others will recognize them as a natural aspect of the human experience.
Your mileage may vary.
René F. Najera, MPH, DrPH, is a dedicated public health professional and epidemiologist, as well as an amateur photographer and fitness enthusiast. He works at a local health department in Virginia, teaches at a university in Northern Virginia, and contributes to a leading school of public health. The views expressed in this blog are solely those of Dr. Najera and do not reflect those of his employers or acquaintances.
Chapter 2: Ethical Decision-Making in Everyday Life
The first video, "How Ethics Can Help You Make Better Decisions | Michael Schur | TED," explores how ethical considerations can guide us in making informed choices in our lives.
The second video, "A World of Complex Choices: Ethical Considerations About Clutter - The Clutter Fairy Weekly #137," discusses the ethical implications surrounding our choices and the clutter they create in our lives.