A Test of Virtue

It is easy to stand for the truth when the people in one’s environment are in agreement, but the real test comes when we stand for the truth despite the pushback and ramifications that one will face for holding such opinions. Therefore,

A person is not virtuous for the popular opinions they eagerly promote, but the unpopular opinions they dare to proclaim.

To articulate this point below is a thought experiment from Professor Robert George of Princeton.

Professor: Imagine you are living in 1860 Alabama. How many of you would be on the side of the abolitionist?

Stu dents: Nearly all the hands go up

Pro fessor: Really? Can anyone of you name a single political stance you are currently willing to publicly proclaim that may cost you your life, liberty, or career today?

Students: Silence