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Does the Republic prioritize individual rights or the common good?

Tula Timbridge

As a user of social media, I have seen this question being debated by many people. In my opinion, the answer is not black and white, but rather a balance between individual rights and the common good.

According to the Gallup Poll, 67% of Americans believe that individual rights should be prioritized over the common good. However, this perspective can lead to situations where minorities or marginalized groups are left behind. For example, in the United States, there have been debates about marriage equality, access to healthcare, and even the rights of undocumented immigrants. In these cases, prioritizing individual rights could lead to discrimination and inequality.

On the other hand, there are situations where prioritizing the common good is necessary. The COVID-19 pandemic is a clear example of this. The government and health officials have had to make decisions that limit individual rights, like imposing lockdowns and mandating mask-wearing, in order to protect the health of the population as a whole.

It is important to remember that individual rights and the common good are not mutually exclusive. In fact, protecting individual rights often leads to a better common good. For example, protecting the right to vote ensures that everyone has an equal say in how their community is governed. Protecting the right to an education gives individuals the tools they need to contribute to society and make it better.

In my opinion, the best approach is to strike a balance between individual rights and the common good. This means protecting individual rights while also taking into account the impact of our actions on others and society as a whole. It means finding solutions that benefit both individuals and the community.