The Imitation Game
01:56:00
One of my favourite movies of all time is the Imitation Game, based on the true life story of Alan Turing. He is considered the father of computer science.
In the height of World War II, he helped develop an algorithm to crack the German secret communication. A key part of that communication was the location of the ships on the Atlantic that were marked for destruction by the Nazis.
By cracking that code, Alan and his team knew every single ship that was going to be destroyed.
That was a huge responsibility, because, if they saved their country's ships, the Germans would know their code had been cracked and they would ultimately lose the single advantage they had in the war. The scene captured above was Peter, begging Alan to allow the ship his brother was on to be saved, to which the team decided against.
Now, you could argue about the ethics of such decisions, but many times as adults or humans, we are faced with such choices. Our responsibilities sometimes come at personal costs and we always have a choice to act selfishly, compared to doing what would benefit those depending on us. And the common excuse is, "You're not God". Why bother?
But surprisingly, in a way, you are. There are people that would be scarred for life if you choose to think of yourself only. When faced with responsibilities, I believe we ought to take up the mantle and make decisions that might cost us personally, but would ultimately benefit the larger community. With more selflessness in leadership positions, everyone benefits in the long run.
You may not be Alan Turing determining who lives and who dies in a World War, but in the personal battles of your small community, you always have a choice to make. In the wars going on in your world, for the good of those around you, I pray you choose selflessly and wisely.
Author's Note:
What do you think? Could you handle such a responsibility? Can you relate? Comment below.
2 comments
I haven't seen the movie. Yet. I just might though the storyline is now so obvious.
ReplyDeleteFirst, the Alan Turing story, is heavy and thankfully, I don't think I'd be in that position to decide people's death.
But as youve pointed out, as adults, we are confronted with such tough decisions. At work, school, with family, with friends etc we have to decide. Things are no longer straightforward, you're faced with gray area problems and need to make decisions accordingly.
I dont have it all figured out but one thing that have helped me shoulder that responsibility is as much as possible, refrain from responding immediately when it comes to making decisions. I take my time and allow time for more information to present itself but if push comes to shove, I go with what's best for the majority.
Thanks Lynda. I admire your honesty.
DeleteAt the very least, that you can look back and say, "I made the best decision, with all the information at my disposal", is a great thing.
Thumbs up!