Hunger and public action

A distinction is sometimes drawn between ‘man-made’ famines and famines caused by nature. […] Blaming nature can, of course, be very consoling and comforting. It can be of great use especially to those in positions of power and responsibility. Comfortable inaction is, however, typically purchased at a very heavy price—a price that is paid by others, often with their lives.

It is […] essential to see the public not merely as ’the patient’ whose well-being commands attention, but also as ’the agent’ whose actions can transform society.