Sir Thomas More: Why not be a teacher? You’d be a fine teacher; perhaps a great one.
Richard Rich: If I was, who would know it?
Sir Thomas More: You; your pupils; your friends; God. Not a bad public, that.
– A Man for All Seasons by Robert Bolt
materialism –
A tendency to consider material possessions and physical comfort as more important than spiritual values
– Oxford English dictionary
altruism –
Disinterested and selfless concern for the well-being of others:
some may choose to work with vulnerable elderly people out of altruism
– Oxford English dictionary
Teaching, healthcare and social work, the “caring professions” (as they are sometimes called) are often derided in the language of politics and seen as unappealing to many due to the fact that they tend to be poorly paid (especially compared to other graduate professions). However, while this may be the case, using one’s talents to help others cannot be a bad thing. Conversely, choosing a career based on how much money one can make is probably not such a good idea. A recently overheard discussion (from two Year 13 students who shall remain nameless) reminded me of this, as one asked the other, “how much can I make in that job?”
Caution: The following video contains strong language.
