Our Poorer Brethren: Understandings and Attitudes

Our behavior and identity are in part a function of our genetic legacy, yes, but also the way we are conditioned and schooled, what we learn in our families, communities and cultures. Some combination of genes and life circumstances determines who we are, how we act, the scope and limits of our potential and achievements. But for the least fortunate of our brethren--the increasing numbers of poor brethren--their choices are far fewer and their ability to act on them much less. That's a reality we could better understand. And compassion and a generous spirit are sentiments we could more often, more broadly embrace. GH