Moral Ambiguity
March 10th, 2025
I mentioned to a friend that I was investing out-of-state in Michigan. That I was gentrifying an area by raising the property valuations, and likely the property tax as well.
I told him it's a morally grey area, and I have no firm position on whether gentrification is bad. I told him though that I enjoy putting my money to use and creating wealth. The transfer of capital generates wealth for everyone.
I suppose it's not that simple, but regardless. I told him of my moral position, how I am aligned with the belief that morality is of the language and the language of the culture and context. I told him to assume one form of morality better than another is equivalent of assuming one culture superior to another.
I don't think I should've said that, because it's frankly critical of any moral position.
As a moral relativist I'm not afraid to admit by saying "every culture should practice feminism" it's equivalent of stating one culture is superior to another. It's philosophical and politically honest and consistent. It is cultural imperialism at its finest, and you know what, I'm not afraid to admit it unlike the vast majority of people.
I dislike people who are inconsistent. But at the same time, it's all words and language. You can twist it and say that you are morally aligned this way, but still think cultures have a freedom to practice as they are. Sure. Take it case by case. You can easily justify and get yourself lost in the arguments.
I see it as games and languages and cultures and histories. It's all in the cards and interactions between human beings.
My friend went silent on me. Closed off. Doesn't wish to talk with me anymore on the subject. I find it sad living in a country of free speech that so many feel that they are unable.
Or perhaps I am too stern in my beliefs that he (A) believes I would unable to be convinced.
What's the language I choose to describe this?
I was thinking in the shower how to speak a different language fluently you might need to adopt the culture's moral framework. I am not sure why this is the case, but some things I say in Vietnamese feel morally sound but in English are clearly morally corrupt and vice versa.
I wonder if it's the same for other bilingual folks as well.
People say their personality changes in a different languages - well let me ask you this, does your sense of morality change as well?
If the self is expressed within the confines of language - what is language in itself? The question plagues me.
Taking a Nap
Likely I'll take a nap after doing some work. Happy Saturday! Can't believe it's May already.
Is the money I earn due to luck or due to skill? As I get older and established I believe it's skill. But as I remember before, it really is all luck, huh?
Money comes and goes. People come and go. But the self is all you're left with. Keep strong.