The Morality of Government Protection: An Analysis of ‘Killers of the Flower Moon’

A frightful chapter in American history, the horrific acts against the Osage people and their oil wealth, was recently brought back to the public eye by the movie ‘Killers of the Flower Moon’. This incident brings forth many questions about the morality and ethics of government responsibility.

“The government has a moral and legal responsibility to protect its citizens, even when they are a minority group.”

The Government’s Moral Responsibility to Protect Its Citizens

Social Contract Theory and Government’s Duty

The government’s duty to safeguard its citizens originates from the social contract theory, where individuals surrender certain liberties in return for protection. The government, thus, has a moral obligation to shield its citizens from harm, ensuring their safety and security.

Utilitarianism and Welfare Promotion

Apart from safety, the government also holds the responsibility of promoting citizen welfare. This moral obligation stems from the utilitarian principle, which advocates for the maximum good for the maximum number of people. Therefore, the government should undertake…