Fairness is a concept that seems to be ingrained in us from a young age. From the time we start playing with our siblings and friends, our parents urge us to share our toys and take turns. As we grow older, this idea of fairness becomes more nuanced and complex. We learn about equality, justice, and the importance of treating others with respect.
But why do we teach our kids to be fair? After all, life isn’t fair, and the world we grow up in isn’t always just. Shouldn’t we be preparing them for the harsh realities of the world, where some people will cheat, lie, and take advantage of others?
Well, the answer is simple: We teach our kids to be fair because it’s the right thing to do. It’s a basic principle of morality that transcends cultural and societal boundaries. And it’s a principle that, when instilled in children, can have a profound impact on the way they approach the world.
Teaching kids to be fair is about more than just preparing them for failure. It’s about instilling in them a sense of empathy and compassion for others. It’s about teaching them to consider the perspectives and needs of others, even when it may not be in their own best interest.
Moreover, teaching kids to be fair can also have practical benefits. In a world that values fairness and equality, those who are fair and just are more likely to succeed and be respected. Fairness is an essential ingredient in building strong, healthy relationships and communities.
Of course, we can’t shield our kids from the harsh realities of the world forever. They will encounter unfairness, injustice, and cruelty at some point in their lives. But by teaching them to be fair and just, we’re giving them the tools they need to navigate these challenges with grace and integrity.
As for the question of whether most people are scum or good, the answer is neither. People are complex and multifaceted, capable of both great kindness and terrible cruelty. It’s important to approach others with an open mind and a sense of fairness, rather than making sweeping generalizations.
In the end, teaching kids to be fair is about more than just preparing them for the world. It’s about creating a better world for everyone, one that values justice, equality, and compassion above all else. So the next time you’re teaching your kids about fairness, remember that you’re not just preparing them for the world – you’re helping to shape it.
With all that fancyness said, I still tell my kids that life ain’t fair when they complain about the number of meatballs on their siblings plate or when I snatch some of their saturday-sweets.
Nuff said.
I have a pillow to rest on and the inside of eyelids to inspect (my own!).
Until later darlins, until later.
