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The Nobel Prizes are annually awarded to those who, during the past year, have “conferred the greatest benefit to humankind”. This is in accordance with the wishes of Swedish industrialist, chemist and engineer, Alfred Nobel (1833–1896), whose will ensured that extraordinary achievements in the fields of physics, chemistry, medicine, literature and peace gained widespread recognition. A sixth award for economic sciences was added later. The prizes are ceremonially presented on December 10, the death anniversary of Alfred Nobel.
Long before Nobel was associated with the prestigious prizes that bear his name, his claim to fame rested on his invention of explosives that were used, among other things, for military purposes. The story goes that, in 1888, Alfred Nobel was unpleasantly surprised to come across his own obituary in several newspapers. It was actually his brother, Ludvig, who had died, but reporters got it wrong. What particularly upset Nobel was the following line in a French publication: “The merchant of death is dead.”
The news item went on to say, “Dr Alfred Nobel, who became rich by finding ways to kill more people faster than ever before, died yesterday.” Apparently, Nobel was horrified that his name was synonymous with destruction. He immediately took steps to bequeath the bulk of his fortune to enhancing the lives of his fellow human beings.
I am reminded of a 15th-century play called ‘Everyman’, in which Death (appearing as a person) tells the titular character to prepare for his final journey. Everyman seeks a companion to travel with him. Among the many who refuse to go along are Beauty, Strength, Wisdom, Discretion and Fellowship. Eventually, Everyman has to rely solely on Good Deeds. The point is that, at the end, the only thing that counts is what we have done for those around us.
As its title suggests, ‘Everyman’ is about each one of us, not just the rich and renowned or people in positions of power. All of us can help to bring about change for the better, in big ways and small, gaining respect and affection. Unlike Alfred Nobel, we may not be able to make munificent donations that will be remembered by future generations. We can, however, leave a lustrous, if not lasting, legacy.