Yesterday was idyllic. In the ides of the afternoon we found ourselves sitting by a city pond watching swans, geese and one particularly loudmouthed white duck. Across the pond was a gazebo occupied by a couple much more fascinated with each other than where they were. Behind us was a sign, “Please do not feed the geese.” In front of us was an eighty-year-old lady feeding the geese. I was fascinated by her blatant action. She must have reasoned, “What can they do to me if I am caught?” The answer would be very little. Authorities are not going to put her in jail. They could fine her but she could refuse to pay it. They are not going to put her in stocks which could have occurred here in Massachusetts three hundred years ago.
Basically she was immune. Which raises the question, “Why do we obey laws?” Is it merely because we fear we will be punished or could it be possible that we are more noble than that? Might we be responsible enough to inquire as to why the law? What are the reasons for not feeding the geese? There are many. The consequences of feeding the geese have health, civic and environmental results. Is it possible that as humans we might see the larger cause beyond our own immediate gratification, punishment or lack of?
In the 18th Century Immanuel Kant proposed that he could not morally act in any way that would not be permissible for all to act. True morality is the foundation for universal behavior. Thus the old lady was a great offender because catastrophe would ensue if everyone came and fed the geese. Her action was selfish and destructive. Alas, great-granny was/is a sinner.
Written by Roger Bothwell on September 17, 2012
Spring of Life Ministry, PO Box 124, St. Helena, CA 94574
Rogerbothwell.org