The dark side of heroism: when doing the right thing goes wrong
What is heroism? Is it always about doing the right thing, or can it sometimes lead to disastrous consequences?
The dictionary definition of heroism is “the quality or state of being a hero”. But what does that actually mean? There are different kinds of heroes – from selfless soldiers who put their lives on the line for their country, to everyday people who perform acts of kindness. And while most heroes are celebrated for their courageous deeds, there are also those whose actions have led to unintended negative outcomes.
In this article, we’ll explore the dark side of heroism, and look at some examples of when doing the right thing has gone wrong.
1. The case of Captain Richard Phillips
In 2009, Captain Richard Phillips was commanding the cargo ship MV Maersk Alabama when it was hijacked by Somali pirates. Phillips and his crew were taken hostage, and he was held in a Lifeboat for five days before being rescued by the U.S. Navy.
While Captain Phillips is generally considered a hero for his actions during the hijacking. Some have criticized him for putting his crew in danger. In particular, one crew member – Second Mate Shane Murphy – has said that Phillips’ decision to hand over control of the ship to the pirates was “reckless and irresponsible”.
2. The story of Aron Ralston
In 2003, mountain climber Aron Ralston became trapped when a boulder fell on his arm, pinning it against the wall of a canyon in Utah. After five days of trying to free him, Ralston eventually made the decision to amputate his own arm in order to escape.
Ralston’s story was turned into the 2010 film 127 Hours, and he is widely seen as a hero for his incredible resilience and determination. However, some have criticized him for taking unnecessary risks – such as hiking alone in an isolated area – which led to his accident.
3. The incident at the Boston Marathon
In 2013, two bombs were detonated at the finish line of the Boston Marathon. Killing three people and injuring hundreds more. In the aftermath of the attack, many acts of heroism were witnessed. Including people who ran towards the explosions to help those who had been injured.
However, some of the people who were hailed as heroes in the aftermath of the attack later faced criticism. For example, one man – dubbed the “mystery runner” – was praised for helping an injured woman to safety. But it was later revealed that he had left her shortly after taking her to a hospital.
4. The death of Cecil the lion
In 2015, Cecil the lion – a beloved resident of Zimbabwe’s Hwange National Park – was killed by an American trophy hunter. The hunter, Walter Palmer, paid $50,000 to guides. Who lured Cecil out of the park so that he could be killed.
The death of Cecil sparked international outrage, and Palmer was widely condemned as a murderer. However, some have argued that Palmer was simply following the rules of the hunt. And that he should not be vilified for doing so.
5. The case of Edward Snowden
In 2013, former National Security Agency contractor Edward Snowden leaked classified information about the U.S. government’s mass surveillance programs. Snowden is seen by some as a hero for his actions. But others – including many in the U.S. government – view him as a traitor.
Whether you see them as heroes or villains. There’s no denying that these individuals all made headlines for their courageous – or controversial – actions. And while their stories may differ, they all serve as examples. Of how doing the right thing don’t always have the desired outcome.
Conclusion:
Doing the right thing doesn’t always lead to a positive outcome. As illustrated by the stories of Captain Richard Phillips, Aron Ralston, and Edward Snowden. Sometimes, people who are trying to do good end up causing harm, or face criticism for their actions. It’s important to consider the possible consequences of your actions before you take them. To avoid unintentionally making a situation worse.