Morrie believed in the inherent good of people. But he also saw what they could become. People are only mean when they're threatened, he said later that day, and that's what our culture does. That's what our economy does. Even people who have jobs in our economy are threatened, because they worry about losing them. And when you get threatened, you start looking out only for yourself. You start making money a god. It is all part of this culture.
Morrie held a strong belief in the fundamental goodness of humanity. Despite this, he recognized that people could become mean or selfish when faced with threats. He pointed out that modern culture and the economy foster a sense of insecurity, causing individuals to prioritize their own well-being over others. This self-preservation instinct is a direct result of the fears instilled by societal pressures.
According to Morrie, the relentless competition and anxiety surrounding job security leads people to adopt a narrow focus on personal gain. This mindset transforms the pursuit of wealth into a distorted form of idolization, where money becomes an ultimate goal rather than a tool for a fulfilling life. Morrie critiqued this aspect of society, emphasizing how it detracts from our innate goodness and connection to one another.
