Journal Entry #9

Journal Entry #9
Chapter 9 : The Drowned and the Saved

Survival is an instinct, survival is a "must," and survival has no other choice. Alfred, Alias, and Schepschel were all examples of survivors that were somewhat selfish and self-centered. They had no other choice but being self-centered since there was no time for anyone to take care of another person. Some people in the camps cling on to their dignity, and some throw their humane side away in order to survive. Is it better to cling on one's humanity and morals, or is it better to become a beast? In my opinion, I think becoming a beast would be more helpful for surviving such a harsh condition.
Also, when people are in a desperate situation, the inner beast comes out which helps them to push the extra step for survival. Selfishness is not something looked down upon in Auschwitz. Selfishness, beast-like characteristics, and survival is the only choice in Auschwitz. Primo Levi's tone, however, seemed to be criticizing of those who were so self centered in the camp. Even though Primo knew himself that survival and being self-centered was a "must" in Auschwitz, Primo seems to be more caring of others since he had the chance to walk out of Auschwitz. At that time, Primo himself may have been self-centered, but looking back from the time when he was writing the book, it seems that he thought a little bit of care and looking out for each other was necessary also. Even though people were beasts in Auschwitz and there were no distinguishment of good and evil, Primo seems to reconsider man's nature of egoism to be beneficial or negative.