I disagree. Risk assessment is both prudent and moral.oldshooter wrote:If you don't help because of the possible risk to yourself, you are being cowardly. Nobody does the right thing all the time, but every time you encounter such a situation, you are making a decision that informs your character. By definition, men of good character are those who most often choose to do what they think is the "right thing" regardless of the risks.
Let's use your example of an elderly disabled neighbor who slips and falls. If that happens at the local mall, of course most people would help him/her up. However, what if you're also infirm and assisting them poses a significant risk of physical injury? I think it's reasonable, not cowardly, to stay with them and await help from somebody with greater physical strength rather than becoming a second injury victim. Even if you're young and strong, other risk factors or worth considering. What if you're on a cruise ship and the elderly neighbor slips and falls overboard? Is it cowardly to call for help rather than leap into the ocean yourself?
