The concept of remorse as an extravagance implies that dwelling on past actions is a privilege unavailable to those facing immediate survival needs or overwhelming present circumstances. Consider, for example, someone struggling with poverty or displacement. Their focus necessarily remains on securing basic necessities, leaving little room for reflection on past choices.
This perspective highlights the disparity in resources, both tangible and intangible, among individuals. It underscores how social and economic realities can shape one’s capacity for introspection and the ability to process past experiences. Historically, this resonates with the Stoic philosophy of focusing on what is within one’s control, a practice often necessitated by unpredictable circumstances in ancient times. Understanding this dynamic can foster empathy and inform more nuanced approaches to addressing individual and societal challenges.
