Respect as a Mutual Exchange

One of the central themes of “When Breath Becomes Air” revolves around the idea that respect is a two-way street—one must show respect to gain respect. Paul Kalanithi’s journey from being a neurosurgeon to a patient diagnosed with terminal cancer highlights the profound transformation in his perspective on respect. As a surgeon, he commanded respect from his patients and colleagues due to his expertise and role. However, his perspective shifted when he became a patient himself, grappling with the vulnerabilities and uncertainties of illness. Kalanithi’s experience as a patient made him realize that true respect stems from empathy, understanding, and acknowledging the shared human experience.

In his memoir, Kalanithi writes, “The physician’s duty is not to stave off death or return patients to their old lives, but to take into our arms a patient and family whose lives have disintegrated and work until they can stand back up and face, and make sense of, their own existence.” (Kalanithi, 2018). This insight underscores the transformational power of mutual respect—the kind that acknowledges the intrinsic value of each individual and recognizes the common struggles that unite us. Kalanithi’s narrative invites readers to consider that genuine respect is rooted in compassion and recognizing the shared vulnerability that accompanies the human experience.

The Changing Landscape of Respect

As society evolves, so does the meaning and expression of respect. In the modern age, respect is not only influenced by interpersonal dynamics but also by larger societal factors. One way to examine this evolution is by looking at how society influences the level of respect shown to different groups of people and cultures. In “When Breath Becomes Air,” Kalanithi’s exploration of his own identity as a neurosurgeon and a patient mirrors society’s shifting perceptions of respect within the medical field.

Kalanithi discusses the hierarchy within the medical profession and the notion that doctors often command respect due to their expertise. He writes, “Doctors, it turns out, need hope, too. It is hopeless only if we regard the present moment as either the beginning or the end of the story.” (Kalanithi, 2018). This statement illuminates the complexity of respect within the medical context. While doctors are often esteemed for their knowledge and skills, they also grapple with vulnerabilities and uncertainties. Kalanithi’s perspective challenges the traditional hierarchy and invites a more holistic understanding of respect—one that recognizes the multidimensional nature of individuals and their roles.

The Influence of Technology and Social Media

Modern-day social media has revolutionized how people interact and communicate. It has also had a significant impact on the notion of respect. The rise of digital platforms has given individuals a new arena to express themselves and connect with others, but it has also introduced challenges related to respectful communication. “When Breath Becomes Air” offers insights into the impact of technology on respect, albeit indirectly.

Kalanithi’s diagnosis and subsequent sharing of his journey through writing demonstrate how technology can be used to foster connection and understanding. His memoir became a platform for him to share his experiences, emotions, and reflections with a wider audience. This act of vulnerability and honesty resonated with readers worldwide, highlighting the power of technology to bridge gaps and cultivate empathy. However, the rise of social media also underscores the need for responsible and respectful online interactions.

Respect and Self-Perception

The way we perceive ourselves and others is deeply intertwined with the sense of respect we feel. Feeling respected has a profound impact on our self-esteem and overall well-being. “When Breath Becomes Air” provides a poignant exploration of how feeling respected shapes one’s view of oneself and others, especially in the context of confronting mortality.

Kalanithi’s journey from doctor to patient challenged his self-perception and forced him to reckon with his mortality. Through his writing, he demonstrates how respect for his patients’ experiences reshaped his own perspective on life and death. His willingness to learn from his patients and embrace their narratives showcases the transformative power of humility and open-mindedness. In this sense, respect becomes a catalyst for personal growth and a tool for navigating life’s most profound challenges.

Conclusion

Paul Kalanithi’s memoir, “When Breath Becomes Air,” serves as a profound exploration of respect’s multifaceted nature and its evolution over time. Through his experiences as a neurosurgeon and a patient, Kalanithi highlights the reciprocity of respect, the changing landscape of its expression, the influence of technology, and its impact on self-perception. His insights remind us that respect is not a static concept; rather, it evolves alongside society, technology, and personal experiences. As readers engage with Kalanithi’s narrative, they are invited to reflect on their own notions of respect and consider how it shapes their interactions, perspectives, and ultimately, their lives.

References

Kalanithi, P. (2018). When Breath Becomes Air. Random House.

FAQ: “Exploring Themes in ‘When Breath Becomes Air’ – 

Q1: What is the assignment about, and which book is being discussed? A1: The assignment involves reading and analyzing the book “When Breath Becomes Air” by Paul Kalanithi. Students are required to choose two essential questions from a provided list and relate them to the themes and content of the book.

Q2: What are essential questions, and how are they related to the assignment? A2: Essential questions are thought-provoking queries that delve into important topics. In this assignment, students select two essential questions from a list and demonstrate how these questions connect to the themes and concepts explored in “When Breath Becomes Air.”

Q3: What are some examples of the essential questions given in the assignment? A3: The provided list includes questions such as: “How does one show respect to gain respect?”, “To what extent has society influenced the level of respect shown to different groups of people/cultures?”, “How has modern-day social media influenced the notion of respect?”, “How has the meaning of respect changed over time?”, and “How does feeling respected impact the way someone views themselves and others?”

Q4: What is the expected approach for the assignment? A4: Students are expected to choose two essential questions and use quotes and evidence from the book “When Breath Becomes Air” to support their connections to these questions. The goal is to analyze the book’s content and explore how the themes and ideas in the book relate to the chosen essential questions.

Q5: How does the book “When Breath Becomes Air” contribute to the assignment? A5: The book serves as a foundation for the assignment. Students need to extract relevant quotes and evidence from the book to illustrate how its themes, characters, and narratives align with the chosen essential questions.

Q6: Is there a particular focus for the assignment beyond connecting themes to essential questions? A6: While the primary focus is on connecting themes to essential questions, students are encouraged to provide a comprehensive analysis that delves into the concepts of respect, societal influence, the role of social media, the evolving meaning of respect, and the impact of feeling respected on self-perception and interpersonal relationships.