The concept of the "three wise monkeys" — hear no evil, see no evil, speak no evil — is often portrayed as a symbol of virtuous behavior. However, when applied to the real world, this philosophy can be dangerously naive and ultimately detrimental to society. Here's why:

Firstly, turning a blind eye to evil by refusing to see it doesn't make it disappear. In fact, it allows it to fester and grow unchecked. Ignoring evil doesn't erase its existence; it merely obscures it from our awareness. By refusing to acknowledge the presence of evil, we fail to address its root causes and prevent its harmful consequences.

Secondly, choosing not to hear about evil doesn't prevent its impact. Evil acts and injustices occur whether we choose to listen to them or not. Understanding and awareness are crucial in combatting evil. By closing our ears to it, we not only deny ourselves the opportunity to learn and understand but also hinder our ability to take meaningful action against it.

Lastly, remaining silent in the face of evil perpetuates its existence. Speaking out against injustice is a fundamental aspect of effecting change in society. Silence can be interpreted as complicity, allowing evil to thrive and perpetuate. By refusing to speak up, we relinquish our responsibility to confront evil and protect those who are vulnerable.

In essence, the "three wise monkeys" approach is a dangerous oversimplification of morality. True wisdom lies not in averting our gaze, shutting our ears, or sealing our lips, but in actively engaging with and confronting evil when it manifests itself. It requires the courage to see, hear, and speak out against injustice, even when it's uncomfortable or inconvenient. Only by acknowledging, understanding, and communicating about evil can we hope to create a better, more just society for all.

Source: ChatGPT
Prompt Engineer: Varanick

See also: On Corruption in America
See also: Will America survive its Naivite?
See also: Three Wise Monkeys

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