Heroes or Villains?

This is a great way to pose the question of whether or not a person should be deemed as great because of specific actions or their overall life or character. Though this is more of an editorial than a fact based musing, I think the question bears great importance to our moral fiber. Through out American history and history as we know it, great leaders have been depicted as great people for their accomplishments, despite their character or their not so great actions. In 1517 Martin Luther nailed his 95 Theses to the door of the Wittenburg church, opposing the beliefs and actions of the Catholic Church. His public display was viewed as bold, heroic, and brave; it is said that he was revered as a good man and true to his faith in god. However, the complaints Martin made were made by another ten years prior and the result was the death of the individual, and he was viewed as naive and juvenile (Alexander). In recent American history we see politicians, such as, Bill Clinton, who appears to be the worst husband/man of all time, but a tremendous leader for our country. America has a long history of being eternally optimistic with regards to those who help our nation succeed. From the realm of pop culture I personally can’t stomach hearing how wonderful John Lennon was because he cared so deeply for peace, mankind, and humanity; he chose such causes in lieu of being a parent to his first son. They never go into detail about that on VH1. Americans will never speak of men like General William Sherman, and his ambition to annihilate the Confederate Army during the Civil War, as blood thirsty, instead our history books tell us that were it not for men of his stature, the south would have won the war and slavery would still exist (Civil War).
Do these acts make these people heroes or villains? I suppose if we look at the philosophical perspective we could apply the foundation of utilitarianism from John Stuart Nell, “The greatest good for the greatest number of people,” (Snell). The only problem with that is slavery was once considered for the greater good.
I think history should always be presented fact based and unbiased, so that those studying it can determine whose birthday they want to celebrate, or who they feel best represents the integrity and fortitude of their country. Propaganda should have no part in the shaping of our minds, so that we may be able to speak more intelligently, and express our views more completely. These ideas may seem simplistic and impossible, but I believe in the whole truth always.



Bibliography

Alexander, Ken. "Religion Cause of Division." Los Medanos College.
Brentwood Center, Brentwood. 25 January 2007.

Alexander, Ken. “Civil War.” Los Medanos College.
Brentwood Center, Brentwood. 07 September 2007

Snell, Mary. “Ethics.” Los Medanos College.
Brentwood Center, Breentwood. 01 February 2007