Ideals are great in the abstract. For instance, you and I probably agree that we should and would, by God, help when we find someone in need. When you’re just sailing along, minding your own business, you can feel pretty confident that you will be true to this ideal. Like when you’re on your commute, riding Chicago’s El, the elevated train running into and out of the city.
The riders of the El are a varied lot. Business folk, from mailroom staff to middle management, college kids, domestic workers, shoppers and people with unusual personalities all jostle each other as they sit or stand in the crowded, swaying train cars.