In "The Year of the Flood," author Margaret Atwood reflects on the constraints of human morality through the character Adam One. He suggests that the range of moral choices available to humanity is quite narrow, indicating that every ethical dilemma we face has been encountered before. This implies a cyclical nature to moral issues, reinforcing the idea that human behavior tends to repeat itself.

Moreover, Adam One’s statement acknowledges the darker aspects of morality, hinting at a spectrum of ethical choices that includes lower, less noble impulses. This commentary invites readers to consider the inherent limitations of moral decisions and the historical context of human behavior, ultimately suggesting a need for growth and evolution in our ethical frameworks.