In the context of the text, what is good and how do we know? How does Elie Wiesel
determine what is right and how people should act in the speech? Do you think his beliefs
apply specifically to war, or can they be applied more generally? Cite evidence from this
text, your own experience, and other literature, art, or history in your answer.

You might know Elie Wiesel (September 30, 1928 – July 2, 2016) from his famous and harrowing autobiography, Night, that recounts his experiences as a prisoner in a concentration camp during World War II. Though he was just a boy at that time, the experience set Wiesel on a lifelong journey to fight genocide and stand up for human rights. He delivered this speech, “The Perils of Indifference,” at the White House in 1999 as part of a speaking series to mark the end of the 20th Century.

While You Read

How does Wiesel define indifference? What examples, stories, comparisons, and vocabulary does he use?

What are some of the criteria to define indifference?

Who is Wiesel’s audience for this speech? What does he want them to do or think differently after they hear his message and understand indifference on his terms?

What other vocabulary or unique terms does Wiesel define in this speech? Why?