ethical decision making down on the farm

faithful blog readers will perhaps remember that the large handsome old barn across the road collapsed back before xmas, and recent visitors have observed that all the debris is far from being cleaned up. i've been debating about whether to call the township building office and ask if there is any law that says you have to take down a dangerous old ruin. there are four horses are in the same area as the piles of splintered lumber, roofing, and general mess. the renters who own the horses have some of this junk surrounded by yellow plastic "danger do not enter" tape, but as penny observed, the horses can't read.

so i was prevaricating about whether or not to call. my main hesitations came from my fear of retribution from the rough and ready renters and my own desire not to be a nosy neighbor and/or an old lady kvetch. i'm embarassed to say that i'm a wimp.

what is the point of taking an ethics class if you can't use what you've learned to make a decision about what is the right thing to do in life? where does all that abstract philosophising get you?

so, shall i call and complain? or keep silent?

let's ask the dead white male philosophers.
i consulted aristotle, who said that a virtuous character is created by virtuous actions.
i asked kant, who said that there is a categorical imperative to always protect innocent animals in danger.
i channeled mill, who pointed out that the greatest good for the greatest number would be for the horses to be safe (he included them in the moral community) and that i would feel good doing the right thing.

fortunately i know a number of living white females, all certified to have very high moral standards.
judith, corinne, sara, and penny all said, yes, protect the horses, make the call. why wouldn't you? better safe than sorry.
i asked neighbor sue, who said yes, call, and while you're at it complain about that big, mean dog that runs loose over there.
i saw neighbor mrs wongstrom, out getting her mail, who said "that barn is an eyesore, call the township."
neighbor scott came by on his bicycle. he was lukewarm about the issue, even though three chickens might also be in danger.

with such unanimous support, i made the call this morning and the township building inspector will drive by and take a look. his secretary seemed more concerned with the eyesore issue than the concern for safety. i guess the eyesore factor is economic; it could influence the desirability of property in the neighborhood. there are so many "for sale" signs around.

i feel good, but embarassed that i didn't call sooner? will my call have any effect? i'll let you know if i can tell.