Morality is necessarily entailed in the creation of law. Otherwise, why should we feel it a duty to be equitable, or to make protective legislation? To say that it is for the sake of social progress is merely to say what is generally known, which is that a good many precepts address duties to others.
Many social problems arise from the failure of individuals to behave responsibly. Whether they are reckless, and expect others to pick up the pieces, or are irresponsible and self- absorbed, failing those who depend on them, they are drains on society, and make trouble. We cannot legislate on all of these matters effectively, but we can lend support to the values that should be internalized. We need people to take care of their kids, with dedication and intelligence, and not as an after- thought. We need people who do not exploit the emotional weaknesses of others, only to hurt them all the more in the end, or leave them alone to deal with pregnancy. We need people who have a sense of civic pride, and who will give back, as their situation permits, to their communities, whether it be through financial support of charities, or volunteer work. In short, as important as freedom is, it lives only because we can count on most people, most of the time, to take care of business, and ensure that the necessary tasks of civilization are accomplished....... |
