Meeting Hitler: A Thought Experiment in Ethics and Inquiry

Introduction to a Dystopian Encounter

Imagine, for a moment, the scenario of encountering Adolf Hitler in person. This is not a hypothetical situation, but a thought experiment that allows us to explore the ethical and philosophical implications of our actions and words in the face of extreme evil. How would we react and what would we say to the man responsible for one of the darkest chapters in human history?

Encouraging an Artist

If the time were when Hitler was a struggling artist, the conversation might unfold differently. For instance, I would remark, "If this is the time when you were an aspiring painter, I believe you are as good a talent as Van Gogh. Go on and keep painting. If you truly believe in your artistry, let me empty my savings to support your work, ensuring it is curated beyond the borders of Europe."

Walking Away in Disgust

Another response would be a more direct and emotional one. One might think, "Crazy Question. I wouldn’t shake his hand that’s for sure or give a Hitler salute. I would turn around and walk away in disgust, refusing to acknowledge any form of connection or respect, no matter the setting."

A Pleasant Greeting

Some might opt for a more conventional approach, even if it seems disingenuous. There might be the idea of saying, "Guten Tag, mein Führer." This greeting would be followed by a thought: "Would you expect anything less? It is a polite form of addressing him, but it also hints at the underlying pain and disgust."

Confronting Evil

Others might choose to confront his evil directly. This approach would be extremely challenging but necessary. One might imagine, "Anyone that evil would not hear my words. Yet, I would want to say, 'You are responsible for the deaths of millions and left countless lives in ruins at your hands. Stand right where you are and do not move while I go get the Israeli police. They will decide your future."

Curiosity and Inquiry

For a more intellectual response, one might curious to understand the motivations behind his actions. It's worth considering, "Damn, I must be high as hell right now. Jokes aside, I would probably question him on his personal philosophy, worldview, and motivations. Why did he believe what he believed? What influenced his decisions? These are the questions that remain unanswered."

A Search for Answers

Amid the ethical concerns, there might be a quest for understanding. In the context of a hypothetical encounter, one might think, "I know where to find your friend Ernst Rohm. I have a book to give him." Finding Rohm, one might continue, "Hi, I have this book for you. It is 'A History of Germany in the 20th Century. I think you would be interested in the chapter titled 'Night of the Long Knives.' It provides a detailed account of his notoriety and the consequences of his actions."

Conclusion

The encounter with Hitler serves as a sobering reminder of the historical context and ethical implications of our actions. Whether we choose to confront, inquire, or avoid, our responses highlight the complexities of human nature and the ongoing pursuit of understanding and ethics in the face of wrongdoing.