A lesson in Ethics…

As you know, Ethic Clothing Co. is currently on a bit of a hiatus until we wrap up some necessary responsibilities in our lives. The name ‘Ethic’ was not chosen randomly, however. This word has significant meaning for us in everyday life.

Ethics is defined as: “the discipline dealing with what is good and bad and with moral duty and obligation”.

One of the aforementioned responsibilities that is currently occupying our time is the completion of our High School education. Being in High School, I am continually exposed to people with varying personalities and ideas. Unfortunately, in talking to and observing the students around me, I’ve noticed a great deal of xenophobia and ignorance. It is severely disappointing to know that kids my age hold such judgmental and hateful opinions of fellow human beings based on such trivial qualities as sexual orientation, race, gender, age, religious view, or even hobbies and interests. I cannot understand a person’s rationale who believes that attraction to the same sex, variation in skin tone, chromosome makeup, years lived, theological beliefs, or chosen activity makes someone less of a human. I do not wish to write a detailed essay about why everyone should be treated with compassion and acceptance. I think we all know how important this is. Maybe we forget, or maybe for some reason we truly feel hate towards those who are not like us. With this writing I simply wish to comment on my observations and ask that everyone take some time to assess their views towards others and make an effort to live a life that benefits those around them instead of spreading hate and prejudice.

I understand that many of these animosities are advertised and glorified by popular culture and television and that while we repeat certain things, we don’t necessarily agree with the idea or meaning. However, we must think before we speak. If you are willing to speak against homosexuality, that means that somewhere in the back of your mind you believe that homosexuals are somehow inferior. This goes for race and gender as well.

Most importantly, Live with compassion towards others and do not let trivial qualities hinder a love for humanity.

Put very simply, if you are at all bothered by the idea of homosexuality; if you have ever made a racist comment or believe that certain races are less human or at all inferior; if you view men or women as objects to be obtained for increased social status or selfish sexual pleasure, or if you make no effort to improve the lives of your peers, please evaluate your reasoning, change your mind, and revert your actions.

Thank you for reading. If you agree with statements made in this article, please spread these ideas to family, friends, and neighbors. Always observe your surroundings and speak out against injustice.

Sincerely,

Jared Thomas