Introduction
Human beings are all susceptible to stereotypes and biases, whether conscious or unconscious. These biases can shape individuals’ opinions and decision-making processes, often leading to negative consequences. In times of crisis, such as a natural disaster, these biases can become even more pronounced as people are forced to decide who to prioritize and who to leave behind (Roy, 2022).
Scenario Description
A nuclear attack has begun, and complete global destruction is expected within two hours. An underground bunker has been constructed to support ten individuals, including one designated leader, for a period of five years—after which radiation levels will be low enough to allow for the safe return to the surface. The task is to select nine individuals from the list below to join the designated leader. The bunker has limited resources, and exceeding the ten-person limit would result in the death of all occupants. Careful consideration must be given to who will be selected to help rebuild human society.
Candidates include:
- 22-year-old Black female athlete addicted to steroids
- 30-year-old Hispanic gay male professional athlete
- 24-year-old pregnant female addicted to cocaine
- 63-year-old rabbi
- 27-year-old Black Protestant minister
- 32-year-old lesbian Chinese microbiologist
- 26-year-old English teacher with AIDS
- 23-year-old male farmer and his 21-year-old wife with smallpox (the farmer insists on both)
- 43-year-old musician and expert hunter
- 29-year-old historian
- 35-year-old prostitute
- 68-year-old civil engineer
- 42-year-old female linguistics professor
- 37-year-old gay male chemist
- 75-year-old medical doctor
- 34-year-old Navy SEAL with PTSD who refuses to come without his weapon
- 38-year-old Mexican drug lord
- 26-year-old housewife who refuses to come without her mentally challenged 8-year-old child
- 48-year-old agoraphobic male biologist
Based on the information provided, it is necessary to determine which nine individuals would be selected to join the leader in the bunker and justify the selections accordingly.
By prioritizing expertise, diversity, and inclusivity, individuals can increase their chances of survival and rebuilding society after a crisis. When making such decisions, it is essential to consider the group’s physical, emotional, and spiritual needs. The shifts towards an open-minded and inclusive mindset, away from stereotyping and discrimination, are necessary for producing fair and just decisions in crises.
Chosen Individuals
Hunter
The first person to select would be the 43-year-old musician, a brilliant hunter. The musician’s hunting skills will be essential in providing food for the group.
Historian
The person to be chosen next would be the 29-year-old historian. This person’s knowledge of history will be vital in rebuilding society after the radiation levels have subsided. It is essential to learn from the past to avoid making the same mistakes in the future.
Engineer
The 68-year-old civil engineer would also be a central addition to the group. This person’s expertise in construction and infrastructure will be essential in rebuilding society. His skills will help create a sustainable living environment in the post-apocalyptic world.
Doctor
The 75-year-old medical doctor is another critical member of the group. With his medical expertise, he can provide necessary medical attention to the group during our time in the bunker. Additionally, his knowledge will be valuable in creating a sustainable healthcare system for society once we leave the bunker.
Linguist
The 42-year-old female linguistics professor will also be an essential addition to the group. Her knowledge of language and communication will be fundamental in creating a universal language to bring people together once individuals leave the bunker.
Pregnant Woman
The 24-year-old pregnant female addicted to cocaine is a difficult decision, but I would include her in the group. While she may require medical attention during her pregnancy, her presence will be valuable in bringing more offspring in the future since she is still young and can continue procreating.
Farmer Family
The 23-year-old male farmer and his 21-year-old wife, who has smallpox, would also be included in the group. The farmer’s knowledge of farming will be valuable in the long term, and we will take every precaution to prevent the spread of smallpox.
Mother and Child
Finally, I would choose the 26-year-old housewife and her 8-year-old child, who is mentally challenged. It is important to include families in the group to preserve a sense of community and to provide emotional support during such a traumatic event. While the child’s mental disability may require additional attention, the mother’s presence will be vital in sustaining the child’s mental health.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the decision of whom to save from a nuclear attack is a difficult one. In deciding whom to keep in the face of an impending apocalypse, it is vital to set aside stereotypes and biases and instead focus on the skills and knowledge that will be valuable in rebuilding society. The chosen group includes a diverse range of individuals, each with unique abilities essential to people’s survival and the future of the human race. As individuals face this new world, it is important to remember that diversity and inclusivity will be essential in creating a thriving society.
Reference
Roy, N. (2022). Commentary: Who and when to leave behind: Difficult decisions around extracorporeal membrane oxygenation selection in coronavirus disease 2019. The Journal of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery. Web.