To the editor:

Some wrong things were once legal: slavery, forced marriages, racial discrimination, forced sterilization. We agree now that they were wrong, because we got past our own self-interest to see the rights of the persons involved. A growing identification with victims has made us more civilized people. People do grow up, do correct their errors, do say, “I’m sorry” and “I was wrong.” When they do, the world is a safer and more pleasant place to live.

If something that is now legal involves a great deal of advantage for strong people and a good bit of hardship, death, or unfair disadvantage for weaker people, we might need to reconsider it. If many people, who once thought something was right, now tell you that it was hurtful, or very wrong — especially if they sacrifice self-interest to turn around on the issue — you might rethink your strong support of it.

If you can’t think of any way to do without the thing you know is awful, ask someone who really wants to help you find an alternative. If everyone shouting for a position is ignoring the same, small voice, you might need to start shouting with him to help the truth be heard.