In “The Ones Who Walk Away from Omelas,” is it morally justifiable to stay in Omelas?

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Selected thesis

It is morally justifiable to stay in Omelas.

Pros

Cons

  • Pro claim 1

    Leaving does not change the child's situation.

  • Pro claim 2

    Only one person suffers in Omelas, compared to more elsewhere.

  • Con claim 1

    By staying in Omelas, you legitimize other people staying there.

  • Con claim 2

    It is unjustifiable to knowingly benefit from someone's suffering.