Duty or Humanity: What’s More Important?

I often find myself asking this question, what should matter more, doing our duty or following our feelings and humanity? This question has always intrigued me, and when I read the Bhagavad Gita, I got many answers. But even then, it takes a lot of courage to stand against everyone and do what is right.

Because I was so curious, I started researching this, and it led me to the story of J. Robert Oppenheimer, the man behind the creation of the atomic bomb. It's said that Oppenheimer, while working on this deadly weapon, was inspired by the Bhagavad Gita. He even quoted a famous line from the Gita after the first successful test of the bomb: “Now, I am become Death, the destroyer of worlds.” This phrase, originally spoken by Lord Krishna in the Bhagavad Gita (11:32), was interpreted by many in a very different way. People misunderstood his words, thinking that Oppenheimer was comparing himself to God, taking pride in the destruction caused by the bomb.

But that’s not the truth. The line reflects a deep philosophical dilemma about duty and consequences. Lord Krishna spoke these words during a moment of great conflict, urging Arjuna to follow his duty as a warrior, even if it meant difficult consequences. In a way, Oppenheimer also believed he was fulfilling his duty as a scientist.

This story made me reflect a lot. Was what Oppenheimer did so wrong? He was doing his duty, but the results were tragic for so many. It makes us question—where do we draw the line between following our duty and protecting humanity?

I feel there’s much more to discuss, and I’ll share more in my next blog. But maybe, just maybe, Oppenheimer was right in doing his duty, even though it led to such devastating consequences.

What do you think?