Why do so many today want to wander off to South Africa or…
““Why do so many today want to wander off to South Africa or Kenya or India or Russia or Honduras or Costa Rica or Peru to help with justice issues but not spend the same effort in their own neighborhood or community or state? Why do young suburbanites, say in Chicago, want to go to Kentucky or Tennessee to help people but not want to spend that same time to go to the inner city in their own area to help with justice issues? I asked this question to a mature student in my office one day, and he thought he had a partial explanation: 'Because my generation is searching for experiences, and the more exotic and extreme the better. Going down the street to help at a food shelter is good and it is just and some of us are doing that, but it's not an experience. We want experiences.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
People often seek distant, exotic experiences for personal fulfillment, neglecting local justice work that may feel less adventurous.
In simple terms: People chase exotic experiences over local help.
Key Takeaway
Prioritize local community action.
Themes
justice
experience
community
privilege
activism
Mood
reflective
critical
inspirational
Type
philosophical
motivational
When to use this quote
- volunteering at shelters
- local advocacy
- community organizing
- policy work
- neighborhood mentorship
Key Concepts
moral responsibility
social capital
identity formation
Questions to Reflect On
- What drives your desire for distant experiences?
- How can local action become meaningful?
A Different Perspective
Local work can feel less exciting, reducing motivation.