As a society, we must support one another— since it wouldn’t be considered a society otherwise. This being said, the common good approach seems best at reinforcing this idea. As Heider said, “With a tremendous loss of life, we may not have a society at all”. At dire times like these, everyone should be taken care of, especially those at higher risk, such as the elderly and the homeless. Being a democracy, it’s only just for us to do what’s best for everyone—after all, our government should be “by the people, for the people”. Sure, in doing so, the economy will certainly take a great toll, but there have been times in which the economy was at its lowest point and yet was still able to recover. Take the Great Recession for example, though it’s not exactly the same situation, it’s still considered to be one of our worst economic downfalls. In other words, death is irreversible, so the wellbeing of the public is far more valuable than our economy. 

Social distancing is intended for the wellbeing of everyone, and demands for others—even those who may not be affected—to change their lifestyle in order to do so. This, as Appiah explains, is why social distancing is deemed as a selfless act. We sacrifice our needs such that others who are at high risk can survive. His analogy of “driving with your eyes closed” signifies how reckless and selfish it is to not follow social distancing, especially if it’s done on a regular basis. And if done by everyone, can lead to serious damage. Mill’s harm principle describes how autonomy will inevitably only reach to a certain degree, for the sake of others safety. In order for the roommates to reach an agreement, the other girl must understand that. 

Appiah’s conclusion seems like the most logical route, especially due to the other roommate’s unwillingness to compromise any other way. Ideally, I feel like it’s best for one of the roommate’s to leave or for the boyfriend to stay at his place or theirs, but this is probably the best compromise she can get. And honestly, I cannot understand why the roommate with the boyfriend doesn’t like either of the options her roommate provided for her, simply because it’s her “right” to choose no matter what. Frankly, it bothers me a lot. 

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