Good Samaritanism must be voluntary
by Tibor R. Machan
In the wake of vicious deeds like those committed at the Boston Marathon some folks are tempted to become irrational in their response. For example, there is now a discussion at The New York Times where some people want to force others to lend a hand to those under attack. Should bystanders be forced to help out or give evidence to the authorities?
No doubt good samaritanism is commendable in most cases--not, though, if it requires abandoning tasks that are important, such as caring for one’s children. Also good samaritanism often involves professionals who are on record committed to provide their service in times of emergency. So in effect, they have already volunteered to help out.
What some people are tempted to recommend is that a helping hand from anyone at all be coerced. But, of course, that would merely multiply evil, not abate it. Helping those being victimized has to be freely offered, never coerced. It is understandable that some folks in desperation support abandoning civilized conduct but it must be resisted. Putting a gun to someone’s head so he or she will “help” out compounds the evil being perpetrated. There is no justification for engaging in coercive conduct with the excuse that the results could be valuable.
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