Moralism In Professor Gilkey's 'The Shantung Compound'

Upon reading the Shantung Compound, one can note professor Gilkey’s contrasting views between the daily life of the compound and his own stance on life. He begins to contemplate on the idea of morality and examines the contradicting behavior of those around him. This is primarily due to his experience of food parcels and a shortage of supplies. It can be argued that materialism damages our ability to act morally. The underlying reason for this argument is the notion of “self” and its relationship to materialism. It begins with a selfish desire to make sure one’s needs are met without considering the predicament others are in. The absence of morality facilitates a life without meaning. The consequence of such a life is that everything becomes

Gilkey argues, “Such a theory of moral action as a means merely to personal holiness completely ignores the fact that moral action has to do primarily with the relations between persons in a community.” When one eliminates his or her duty to society and focuses entirely on what he or she desires, the individual is only able to live at the expense of others. An example of this is being rich and not having to worry about food; however, many refuse to give up their life of luxury to help the poor. Although these individuals may give a small donation, they look for ways to enhance their lifestyle. They may buy the trendiest clothes or the latest car. They are only living for themselves and lose their sense of purpose or meaning in

Gilkey states, “What is economic or social security when all is insecure? What is fame when the cheering crowds have taken to the hills? What is social prestige in a society which lives huddled in caves and subway stations?” If the primary focus of human beings is to get rich and obtain all material possessions, then the time for self-evaluation is minimal. One cannot grow in their moral character and reflect on goodness while he or she is preoccupied with other things. Similarly, being moral requires human beings to act through relationship because one’s actions could affect the other