There is not a person on earth who chose his genome, or the country of his birth, or the political and economic conditions that prevailed at moments crucial to his progress. (Sam Harris – neuroscientist / philosopher).
So, our luck allowing us the privilege of being doctors in this very lucky country should not be forgotten or taken for granted.
Given that we are equipped with the capacity to sympathize with others, nothing can prevent the circle of sympathy from expanding from the family and tribe to embrace all of humankind, particularly as reason goads us into realizing that there can be nothing uniquely deserving about ourselves or any of the groups to which we belong. We are forced into cosmopolitanism: accepting our citizenship in the world. (Steven Pinker – cognitive psychologist).
So, if we claim capacity for significant sympathy we should not forget where this sympathy should extend.
Thought experiment: You walk past a lake and see a child drowning. Do you jump in and save her life even though it will cost $500 to replace your ruined suit? (Peter Singer-philosopher).
So… out of sight ought not automatically translate to out of mind.
It’s nearly the end of May so please consider making your contribution to TTD to help correct the massive imbalance of health resources in our one world.
Also, never forget the considerable appreciation of your previous and hopefully future contributions. (See attached video).