The Importance Of Morality In The Space Traders By Derrick Bell

We fallaciously believe that we have morals and do “good” things because they are the right things to do, but we truly act out of self-interest and desire to be socially accepted. In addition, we erroneously believe that our morals are unbiased—that our righteousness is impartial and unprejudiced—and are reasonably better than those of others with differing morals. From an early age, we are taught to do what is right. Because righteousness is such a broad, subjective idea, we are exposed to the various ways in which a person can do “good” things. Children are rewarded for their good deeds, conditioning them to seek recognition for their benevolence rather than developing a sense of altruism. As the children continue to develop socially, perpetuation
Faults and exceptions to our morals occur frequently, whether consciously or subconsciously. In Derrick Bell’s “The Space Traders,” the characters’ own concealed feelings of racism and white supremacy are revealed through their discussions and actions. Whites equate the value of human life to economic gain and discount the rational and understandable fears of blacks because they are “the other.” The Secretary of Health and Human Services states that whites would face “a severe psychological toll” if the exchange is made, prioritizing mental trauma of white people over any possibly negative consequences for black people. While it may appear that she is concerned with the well-being of American citizens by logically considering any drawbacks, the secretary is excluding the potential threats to “fifteen percent of [American] citizens” because of their race, consciously or otherwise. Furthermore, the Secretary of Interior refuses to consider or acknowledge any unfavorable outcomes for black people in being taken. Instead, he fantasizes about countless advantageous results such as, “a new start in a less competitive environment,” and “training in skills and work discipline.” The secretary’s improbable thoughts exhibit his disregard for black lives. He does not show the people kindness or empathy; instead, he imagines fanciful excuses to justify his unequal treatment for those of the black race. A compromise of morals is often due to neglect of those with differing race or other dividing characteristics, a transgression of which all are