Question

12 multiple choice 2 points
the \ones who walk away from omelas\ engage in a final, solitary action. what is the nature of this action, and what does the narrator suggest about their ultimate destination?
they choose to stop speaking and live in silent protest against the mortal sin of omelass bargain.
they leave omelas alone, walking toward a place that is unimaginable but holds the possibility of an existence without sacrificing others.
they return to the cellar to offer the child comfort, realizing that true happiness must include self - sacrifice and shared pain.
13
multiple choice 2 points
the story explores ethical problems around changing humanity. which of the following best captures the main concern raised in butlers piece?
whether such changes would create unintended negative consequences.
whether such power should be entrusted to any individual.
whether humans deserve the right to be left unchanged.

Explanation:

• Question 12: In "The Ones Who Walk Away from Omelas", the people who leave do so to seek a place that might offer an existence without sacrificing others. The story implies a moral stance against the city's bargain (one child's suffering for the city's happiness). The first option about silent protest is not the final action described; the third option about returning to the cellar is incorrect as they walk away.
• Question 13: Butler's work often delves into the ethical implications of power over humanity. The main concern is about the power (to change humanity) and if it should be given to any individual. The first option about unintended consequences is a part - but not the main concern; the third option about the right to be unchanged is not the central ethical problem Butler focuses on.

Answer:

1. They leave Omelas alone, walking toward a place that is unimaginable but holds the possibility of an existence without sacrificing others.
2. Whether such power should be entrusted to any individual.