The values that I have are the values I was raised with, from
The values that I have are the values I was raised with, from where I'm from, which is a middle-class place. So that informs everything about me, my politics and all that stuff. I mean, politically, I vote against my own self-interest at every election. I actively ask these people to raise my taxes.
The words of Matt Damon — “The values that I have are the values I was raised with… Politically, I vote against my own self-interest at every election. I actively ask these people to raise my taxes.” — echo with the spirit of duty that transcends the self. He speaks as one who remembers his roots, the middle-class world from which he came, and he refuses to sever the bond between his prosperity and the struggles of those who remain in need. In this, his values stand not as ornaments of speech, but as the living compass of his choices.
His declaration carries the essence of an ancient truth: that true politics is not the pursuit of personal gain, but the pursuit of the common good. To vote against self-interest is to act as a citizen rather than a mere consumer of benefits. Damon’s words remind us that justice requires sacrifice, that the privileged must sometimes yield so that balance and fairness might be preserved. In this spirit lies nobility, for it is easy to serve oneself, but heroic to act for others.
History offers us a luminous example in Marcus Aurelius, the Roman emperor who lived with simplicity despite his imperial power. He clothed himself plainly, ate humbly, and declared that his duty was to serve the empire, not his own comfort. Like Damon, he understood that values are not to be abandoned when fortune smiles, but must guide even more firmly when power and wealth tempt the soul toward selfishness.
The origin of Damon’s stance lies in memory — the remembrance of where he came from and the recognition that prosperity does not erase kinship with those who struggle. In holding to his middle-class values, he keeps faith with the soil that shaped him, resisting the corruption that often overtakes those who ascend into wealth. Thus, his cry for higher taxes upon himself is not folly, but a declaration of solidarity with the many over the few.
Therefore, O seekers of wisdom, learn this: to live by values is greater than to live by wealth. Let your choices be guided not only by what benefits you, but by what strengthens the community. For a society where each clings only to self-interest is a house divided, but one where citizens act for the whole may stand firm for generations. Damon’s words, simple yet profound, are a reminder that the measure of greatness is not in how much one keeps, but in how much one gives.
LTle thuy
This quote really got me thinking about the complexity of political decisions. If voting for policies that don't directly benefit you is an act of selflessness, what does that say about the nature of politics itself? Are we too focused on individual gain to ever truly support measures that require collective sacrifice? Does this kind of thinking contribute to a healthier democracy, or does it just create unrealistic expectations?
HNhong nghi
Damon’s perspective sounds noble, but does it truly reflect the average person’s mindset? I’m curious, how much of a disconnect exists between people's political beliefs and their actions? If everyone voted like him—prioritizing society over self-interest—would there be a noticeable difference in the political landscape? Or, is it simply not sustainable for people to think so broadly when it comes to things like taxes?
NTMai Anh Nguyen Thai
Is it possible to act in the collective good without feeling conflicted about personal sacrifice? Damon’s quote has me reflecting on the tension between self-interest and societal responsibility. Could there be more people like him who consciously make these decisions, or is he in a minority? It’s fascinating to think about how values play a role in political decisions, but can it ever be enough to drive systemic change?
TVNguyen Tieu Vy
Matt Damon's statement resonates with me because it raises a crucial question: how often do our values align with our political actions? His idea of voting for the greater good, even when it might not be personally beneficial, feels very idealistic. But is it even realistic for most people to think this way? Wouldn't it be hard to convince the majority to vote for higher taxes or policies that don't immediately serve them?
MLMinh Le
The concept of voting against one's self-interest seems admirable but also puzzling. Why would anyone willingly increase their taxes or choose policies that don't directly benefit them? Is it a sign of true civic duty or maybe even a sense of guilt? It makes me wonder how many others share this mindset, and if it's possible to prioritize societal progress over personal gain in such a polarized political environment.