Chapter 59 : Morals!

Cady's sudden appearance startled everyone, though she was swiftly whisked away by the nurse.

Despite her injuries nearly healed, she remained somewhat fragile, unable to venture outdoors for the time being.

As Carl and the others gathered, Professor X's gentle smile graced his lips as he addressed them, "Perfect timing. I intend to impart a lesson to our senior students. You're all welcome to join."

Professor X, both principal and teacher of the school, juggled a busy schedule but spared moments for such teachings.

The subject matter veered from conventional mathematical physics, delving into themes guiding students to nurture sound moral compasses—a classroom in essence, though resembling more an office, with a dozen seniors scattered across the room.

Onstage, Professor X sat in his wheelchair, emanating an air of wisdom, his eyes brimming with gentleness as he spoke.

"Classmates, when an individual possesses power surpassing that of ordinary folk, even the slightest exertion can yield profound ramifications in the surroundings."

"Consider this individual: will they employ their abilities to foster societal progress, becoming heroes defending the vulnerable?"

"Or succumb to desire, opting to dominate society, reigning over millions, or even plunging the world into chaos for personal gain?"

With these words, the professor's gaze rested upon Carl, standing among the crowd, as he continued, "This is a matter we must ponder, for that individual is none other than ourselves."

"As wielders of extraordinary power, we must delineate between the righteous and the erroneous use of our abilities."

"And the linchpin of this demarcation lies within our morality."

"When a formidable Mutant lacks moral restraint, yielding to desire and unleashing their powers recklessly, they become tyrants."

At this juncture, Colossus raised his hand, voicing skepticism, "But professor, didn't you once mention that morality is a construct of societal consciousness, devoid of clear-cut standards?"

"And we Mutants, ostracized by mainstream society, what moral code are we expected to uphold?"

"A valid inquiry indeed—what indeed are the specific ethical benchmarks?"

The professor's smile widened, "In my view, the precise measure of morality lies in its lack of specificity, evolving in tandem with the passage of time."

"If one seeks a tangible gauge, it's the law; for the law forms the bedrock of morality, and morality, in turn, extends from it."

"So long as you operate within legal confines, your actions remain within moral bounds."

"If one violates the law, such as utilizing abilities to steal, rob, or even kill and plunder others' property, these actions must also transgress moral boundaries."

"And that's why we're marginalized from mainstream society."

"Because of the power we possess, we can easily circumvent the law, and if we engage in unlawful activities, we won't be apprehended and punished."

"Meanwhile, most ordinary individuals lacking such power must adhere strictly to legal norms."

"Once you step beyond those bounds, you'll find yourself crushed by the force known as the law."

"Even the most potent figures, such as the President of the most influential country in the world, remain subject to the law, albeit with variations in the extent of their bindings."

A student raised their hand, voicing a somewhat dissatisfied tone, "Professor, but our mutants are evidently formidable. Why should we adhere to the legal standards of ordinary people?"

Professor X smiled faintly, "The reason is quite simple. Our mutants' abilities are indeed formidable, yet the 'power' held by ordinary individuals who dominate mainstream society is even greater."

"We are merely individuals who have undergone genetic awakening, attaining significant power, but at our core, we remain 'human.'"

"If you harbor the notion of regarding ordinary people as slaves or inferior beings, then in the eyes of the more powerful, you too will be viewed as a subordinate and inferior creature."

"The notion of 'murderers being forever hunted' encapsulates this idea; hence, we must adhere to our own moral compass and exercise self-discipline because we are still 'human.'"

Professor X's words prompted contemplation among the students below.

At that moment, Carl raised his hand, stating, "Professor, I've heard it said that with great power comes great responsibility, and I hope that those with power will undertake more social responsibilities."

"However, I don't believe this statement is accurate. Why should I assume greater responsibility merely because I possess power? Can't I choose to lead a simpler, ordinary life despite my abilities?"

Professor X fell silent for a moment before responding, "Indeed, that statement is flawed."

"The accurate assertion should be that with greater ability comes greater rights, and consequently, greater responsibility."

"If you acquire rights, you must shoulder corresponding responsibilities. This is your repayment to those who granted you those rights, constituting an equitable exchange."

"And when you choose to forsake rights, there's no rationale to shoulder burdens that aren't yours."

Speaking ponderously, Professor X remarked, "Yet 'humanity' is inherently communal. As an old Eastern adage goes, 'Under the nest, how can there be an egg.'"

"If, one day, the world faces a cataclysmic calamity, those who shirked responsibility must rise."

"The act of standing isn't for any obligation or ethnicity but for oneself."

"For when the world crumbles and cultures fade, your identity as a 'human' fades too. You were human then, and you're no longer."

"Merely a solitary nomad."

Professor X's lectures resembled more of an intellectual symposium, fostering a laid-back ambiance yet brimming with profound reflections.

****

Support me on my patreon and read upto 15 early chapters.

https://www.patreon.com/AniScout