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<p>Is conscience a more powerful motivator than money, fame, or power?</p>
<p>It is assumed, generally, that human nature is composed of superficial motives, such as power, fame, and greed. Yet, time after time, we have seen that those best regarded by society ultimately choose to reject that notion. It is human empathy that allows people to overcome the stereotype of human nature and pursue goals with dignity.
In the Death of Ivan Ilyich, by Leo Tolstoy, the main character, Ivan lives his life by pursuing his superficial desires. He abandons his family in hopes of attaining power and money. In that respect, Ivan was initially motivated by something other than conscience, yet once he achieved this goal, his life falters. As he obtains a deathyl illness, he finally realizes that his entire life has been pointless. He has pushed away his family in hopes of living a worthy life, yet, in the end, this motivation resulted in a worthless life. What this shows is that, greed can be a motivator, yet, conscience ultimately takes over. It was hsi conscience that allowed Ivan to finally realize that what he thought was a pure life, was in fact the opposite. As he lays on his bed, he realizes that no one will remember him, that his positions will rot, and that he has made no positive impact on society. This realization proves that consicnecnce, has more power than money, becasue consience allows humans to empathize with others.
Jawarahal Nehru, the first Prime minister of India, is a prime example of a leaer who chose to abandon superficial goals for sensible ones. Once India obtained its independence, Nehru had to decide what to do with the Muslim minority in India. Although, subjugating them was the popular action, his conscience overtook his desire to gain popularity. Realizing that mistreatment of Muslims would contradict the goals of Indians prior to the revolution, Nehru passed a series of unpopular social documents mandating the equal treatment of Muslims. What this shows is that, human nautre is composed of empathy, and this ability to relate to one another overcomes all other obstacles. Conscience is able to overtake desire for greed and Nehru's legacy lives on in great reverence.
Finally, in Crime and Punishment, by Fyodor Dostoevksy, the protagonist, Raskolnikov proves that conscience is a more powerful motivator than money or fame. In this case, Raskolnikov plots to murder a paownbroker, not for the money, but for the principle. He conceptualizes that the pawnbroker represents an evil leach who is ruining society. Understanding that he would gain no power, fame, or money for his actions, Raskolnokiv, nonetheless, decides to commit the murder. Dostoevsky chooses to detail his motives to help readers understand that the human mind has ultimate control, and that no external motivation can affect actions as much.</p>
<p>Ultimately, superficial objects surround us, and yet, human nature again and again is able to overcome this desire. The veracity of this claim is easily proven by observing historical examples and examples in literature.</p>