Continuing my series of alternative responses to the New York Times column, The Ethicists, looking at the consequences of one’s actions instead of imposing values on others, here is my take on today’s post, “What Should an Ethicist Tell His Readers?” I’ve just been asked to take on a column that deals with ethical quandaries. Is there anything I should let readers know? KWAME ANTHONY APPIAH My response: The person[…] Keep reading →

People blame others for shaming them. The media, which benefits from confrontation and conflict, amplifies their voice. The blame arises in various contexts—sex, size, etc. I think they make themselves sound like children. Someone can try to shame you but only you can allow yourself to feel it, for adults who have learned to manage their emotions, at least. Feeling shame when you don’t want it means your emotions are[…] Keep reading →

Continuing my series of alternative responses to the New York Times column, The Ethicists, looking at the consequences of one’s actions instead of imposing values on others, here is my take on today’s post, “Do Another Woman’s Marriage Vows Bind Me?” A single woman, I moved to a new town and became friendly with a married man who then told me that he was romantically interested in me. He said[…] Keep reading →

Continuing my series of alternative responses to the New York Times column, The Ethicists, looking at the consequences of one’s actions instead of imposing values on others, here is my take on today’s post, “Do I Have to Keep a Secret About a Family Member’s Health?“ My uncle’s daughter texted this message to me a few days ago: “You didn’t hear this from me, and pretend this conversation didn’t take[…] Keep reading →

I first noticed it in the last semester of business school when most students were complaining about having to choose between job offers. All the offers more than met their standards. Dwelling in their decisions instead of choosing and living their lives made them miserable instead of enjoying themselves. What made them miserable wasn’t that they had multiple offers—that is, the problem didn’t come from outside. The problem was their[…] Keep reading →

Continuing my series of alternative responses to the New York Times column, The Ethicists, looking at the consequences of one’s actions instead of imposing values on others, here is my take on today’s post, ”Can I Hire Someone to Write My Résumé and Cover Letter?” I’m looking for a new job in the nonprofit sector and am considering using a résumé service to write my résumé and cover letter. Part[…] Keep reading →

Continuing my series of alternative responses to the New York Times column, The Ethicist, looking at the consequences of one’s actions instead of imposing values on others, here is a take on today’s post, “His Qualifications — and Mine.” While volunteering at a local charity, I became friends with a fellow worker. I considered recommending him for membership to a local service club. The club requires vetting, so I checked[…] Keep reading →