בס”ד
Category 1 – Subcategory Injury
Johan and Maarten were brothers, but jealousy would destroy everything between them. Their father worked hard for the family and their mother was very sweet. One day Johan and Maarten decided to thank their father with a drawing for all his hard work.
Maarten drew very nicely and tried very hard. Johan, on the other hand, hurried and made a sloppy drawing because he wanted to do other things. When their father saw the drawings, he seemed to like Maarten’s better. Johan became jealous and angry. He thought his father did not love him.
Father warned Johan that jealousy is not good. It makes you angry and sad, and it can lead to stupid actions. He told Johan to do his best, and then next time he would also look at his drawing with more attention.
Johan had listened to his father, but his jealousy remained. He asked Maarten to go outside and play football together. During their walk to the football pitch, Johan became increasingly angry with Maarten. When a car approached, he pushed Maarten into the road. The car hit Maarten… and from that day on, nothing would be the same.
Was it fair of Johan to be jealous of Maarten? Was he allowed to hurt him because of that?
The ethical question that arises here pertains to the consequences of jealousy and the responsibility for resulting actions. Specifically, it revolves around:
Responsibility: Is Johan responsible for what happened, given that he intentionally pushed his brother, causing an accident? Should he bear the consequences of his actions, regardless of the jealousy he felt?
Parental responsibility: The father warned Johan about the consequences of jealousy and emphasized the importance of doing his best. Does the father bear any responsibility for not preventing the escalation of jealousy between his sons?
Morality and reflection: What ethical lessons can be drawn from this situation regarding controlling jealousy, taking responsibility for one’s actions, and the consequences of impulsive actions?
The ethical question in this situation centers on Johan’s responsibility for his actions and the impact of his jealousy on the serious consequences that unfolded. It also raises questions about parental guidance and the role of parents in teaching ethical values to their children.
By Angelique Sijbolts
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