In a happy child, it should not be difficult to stimulate a generous disposition ; but if the child is starved of pleasures, he will, of course, cling tenaciously to those that are attainable. It is not through suffering that children learn virtue, but through happiness and health.
Source: Bertrand Russell: On Education, especially in early childhood, 1926, Pt. 2：Education of character, chap. 7: Selfishness and property.
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The Constitution of Japan does not define the duties of the people but rather their rights, and it clearly proclaims "the right of all citizens to maintain a minimum standard of wholesome and cultured living"?in other words, the right to live.
However, while this is true in theory, in practice, it is often difficult to say that this right is fully realized. For example, when individuals who are economically disadvantaged?or those who were once financially stable but have fallen into hardship due to unforeseen circumstances?seek assistance from government agencies, they are sometimes denied the necessary support under the pretext that "taxpayer money must be used appropriately." Furthermore, on social media, false information and rumors about those seeking support are frequently spread, sometimes leading to public outrage and backlash.
From the moment people are born, they face various inequalities, including economic disparities. While it is said that all people possess equal fundamental human rights, these rights can, in reality, be undermined due to inequalities present from birth. Yet, even when such injustices occur, there are not a few people who choose to turn a blind eye.
Today's quote from Bertrand Russell (see attached image) warns against the tendency of well-off children and adults to lack imagination and understanding toward those who are less fortunate. It emphasizes the importance of compassion.
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