Fairness over fame – A story of Darwin and Wallace

Before we start, let us tell you a story. Darwin, the founder of evolution, before he finished writings on the origin of species, he found that a stripling named Wallace also finished a similar theory and wanted to publish it. Although Darwin already had a certain reputation, he didn’t hype his theory and even wanted to give up the chance of publication since Darwin was fearing that Wallace might feel unfair, but eventually, Darwin condensed his work into a paper that was read alongside Wallace’s paper at the same time. His fairness got a lot of admiration and his theory had spread far and wide.

Because of Darwin’s action, a role model was set up in the scientific community. Others also recognized the importance of fairness. They thought that fairness can bring others a chance to compete in an equitable way. Fairness can help the society become better and better. Nowadays, we can see there are different laws to protect people’s rights and interests. They build a level playing field for all.

In scientific area, there are patents which is fair to all the inventors. Different people can invent different things they want, and they can get the corresponding return. Inventors don’t have to be afraid that the one who is more famous will go off with their contribution.

Besides scientific area, fairness can be shown everywhere. In the society, we can see that different job opportunities are provided to the handicapped person. For example, there are some organizations teaching them to make different pastries for selling. The society gives a lot of help to them. They want everyone to have a chance to play their roles. They try their best to make the world a fair place. Due to their contribution, the handicapped person can compete in a fair way, and this add a lot of smiles to their faces.

Fairness makes the world become better and better. However, there are still some injustices in the world. Therefore, we should also try our best to protect justice. Fairness can be shown in a small event. Maybe we can start with our daily life. For example, there are some arguments between your best friend and other students. You should find out the truth first instead of helping your best friends to punish others. This small action can protect justice, and everyone will not feel wronged. Thus, we can see that how fairness is important to us. “Be fair. Treat the other man as you would be treated.”

Library Club
15 February 2022