In Jonathan Safran Foer's "Everything Is Illuminated," the protagonist shares insight into their motivations for acting with kindness and decency. They explain that their actions stem not merely from familial ties but from a fundamental sense of common decency. This reflects a deeper understanding of humanity, highlighting the importance of treating others with respect regardless of personal relationships.

The protagonist also emphasizes the value of being considerate and not behaving like "a big fucking asshole," which illustrates a moral stance rooted in basic human values. This perspective shows that the teachings of the hero have influenced them profoundly, encouraging a commitment to being a decent person simply for the sake of being decent.