Mr. Woodruff, a philosophy professor at the University of Texas, Austin, uses the myth of the Greek warriors Ajax and Odysseus to show how issues of justice can set off societal conflict. The Ajax quandary arises after Achilles is slain in battle, and his armor is to be given to the army\u2019s most valuable soldier. Ajax and Odysseus compete for it.<\/p>\n
Ajax, a courageous, loyal and hard-working warrior, demands the armor on the grounds that he has saved the lives of many comrades on the battlefield. Odysseus is innovative and articulate but not completely trustworthy; his values seem to fluctuate to suit his interests. He claims the prize as a strategist who can outthink the enemy.<\/p>\n
The men square off in a speaking contest in front of King Agamemnon and a panel of army jurors. It is, Mr. Woodruff writes, a conflict we all recognize \u2014 that of \u201cloyalty and brawn versus brains and trickery.\u201d Ajax loses and his anger explodes, damaging his position in the army and destroying his life, family and reputation.<\/p>\n
The author argues that this myth revolves around the issue of rewards, which \u201cmark the difference between winners and losers.\u201d He adds: \u201cRewards are public recognition for contributions made. They express the values of a community.\u201d But which, he asks, do we value more: \u201cCleverness or hard work? Strength or intelligence? Loyalty or inventiveness?\u201d<\/p>\n