#10519
Mentioned in 3 episodes

The ones who walk away from Omelas

Book • 1973
Ursula K. Le Guin's "The Ones Walk Away from Omelas" is a renowned short story exploring the moral complexities of utopian societies.

It depicts a seemingly idyllic city where happiness is maintained at the cost of a single child's suffering.

The story challenges readers to confront the ethical implications of societal structures and the compromises made in the pursuit of collective well-being.

Le Guin's masterful use of allegory and her exploration of profound moral dilemmas have made this story a staple of literature courses and a source of ongoing discussion about ethics and social responsibility.

The story's enduring power lies in its ability to provoke thought and challenge readers to examine their own values and beliefs.

Mentioned by

Mentioned in 3 episodes

Mentioned by
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Russ Roberts
as a short story exploring utilitarian themes.
25 snips
#87 – Russ Roberts on whether it's more effective to help strangers, or people you know
Mentioned by
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David Naiman
in a conversation about the concept of walking away from Omelas.
Omar El Akkad : One Day, Everyone Will Have Always Been Against This
Mentioned by
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Bayo Akomolafe
in the context of a perfect city and the choice to leave utopia.
What is a Good Life? #17 - Leaving Utopia with Bayo Akomolafe
Mentioned as a story about a town's happiness dependent on a child's suffering.
The Cardinal Virtues and Living Life Well I Prof. Raymond Hain
Mentioned by
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David Barr Kirtley
as one of Le Guin's short stories.
460. The Dispossessed by Ursula K. Le Guin Review (with Anthony Ha, Matthew Kressel, Lisa Yaszek)
Mentioned by
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Sarah Wilson
in relation to the moral complexities of happiness and security.
BAYO AKOMOLAFE: The times are urgent, let’s slow down and become a fugitive
Mentioned by
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Russ Roberts
in relation to utilitarian ethical dilemmas.
Rob Wiblin and Russ Roberts on Charity, Science, and Utilitarianism

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