The Feelings of The Fortunate

Society as a whole is reactionary, especially at the turn of the century where the digital and information age has played a dominant role. Whether it be memes, news, YouTube videos, or content found on social media, people have something to say and want the world to hear it. However, when people are unable to evoke the reaction they were expecting, they will use more drastic measures. Words are strong, but a single photo is worth a thousand words. Images are often irrefutable as they reveal the truth, words can be easily disputed but not most pictures. Photos are powerful; they are the truth staring back at you. If I wanted society to see the reality of a situation like the refugee crisis, I would use a photo to show people the sad truth that is not given the light of day.

First of all, tragedies do not see borders; they strike anywhere, anytime, and any person. Tragedy does not discriminate, but unfortunately, people do with their attention. Often people will shrug something off because they believe it does not directly affect them. That is why when individuals believe that another human’s suffering does not affect them, drastic measures have to be taken. For example, when looking at the lifeless corpse of a child, it becomes a problem that affects you. Even if one does not know the child directly, it evokes emotions. Using a photo of a lifeless child is an extreme move, but at a certain point, you need to do something drastic to shed light on a serious issue. There are certain drawbacks like people who view photographing a lifeless child as invasive, due to it being such a delicate situation.

In conclusion, if I were an editor I would publish the photo of Aylan Kurdi, in the hopes of educating the public. Giving the public a much-needed reality check on the struggles of refugees. I hope that this photo would highlight how unethical it is for society to stand idly by as children die seeking asylum. I would be caring most for the refugees and asylum seekers; therefore, I would be neglecting the feelings of those who are reacting to the photo. I believe the circumstances of refugees are direr than those individuals who are upset by me revealing the ‘ugly’ truth. To me, the well-being of refugees is more important than the feelings of the fortunate.

#CommEthicsWeek4