Human Nature

     I couldn't help but notice the irony in the scene with the doctor in chapter 42.  When he needs help to cut the bullet out of Tom's leg, Jim--knowing the consequences of coming out of his hiding spot and showing himself to an unfamiliar white man--offers to help.  The doctor recognizes this goodness in Jim, yet it seems to shock him--solely because of the color of his skin.  Although Jim's actions were proving his selflessness and faithfulness to other people, all the doctor could think about was that he had to sit around and wait with the runaway slave.  While Jim felt it his obligation to give up his freedom to help someone in need, the doctor felt it his duty to give up a warm, cozy bed in order ensure another man's slavery.
     It came as extremely ironic to me that the doctor stands up for Jim after he puts him back into slavery.  It's as if Jim is only of good character as long as he is in chains.  The doctor notices Jim's humanity, but still doesn't do anything about it!  Reading this was so frustrating to me; I just wanted to shake the doctor and make him realize how contradicting he was sounding.
     I guess this is just another way Twain was showing us the true human nature.  We know what is morally right, but we also know the rules.  And we deceive ourselves into believing that those two things alway go hand in hand.  I think we can still apply this to our society today.  What rules or laws are there set in place that contradict with our morals?  Do we try to justify what we're doing because "it's the rules," even if the rules may be corrupt?  It's certainly an interesting concept to think about.
     I would like to end this with another little comment Twain makes on humanity, in a seemingly insignificant sentence.  Just after the doctor is finished with his praise of Jim and his speech convincing the others not to treat him so badly, this is one of the onlookers response:
     "Well, it sounds very good, doctor."
     And then they move forward with their business and lock Jim back up, this time with a shackle on each limb.