Ongoing ethical tension between the individual and society.

Marisa, what jumps out at your humble servant here above all is your observation of the ongoing ethical tension between the individual and society.  At times, society needs to come first.  At other times, the individual needs to come first.  Of course, wisdom is know "what time it is."  I hope we never lose this ethical tension, for it is a very good way to maximize justice overall, not just for an individual and not just for a majority.  Yes, this tension is healthy; you are astute to realize this and make it part of your ethical approach.  I like it! When I started teaching high school, our guidance counselor pointed out this tension.  It opened my eyes to the need to accept and work with it on an ongoing basis. One size does not fit all.  Dr. Rux