Oh wow, I didn't expect things to get philosophical, but I did appreciate it and the character development it brought.
Hopefully, we get more of WIll's backstory to see why he thinks the way he does; seems like he's starved for genuine, human affection after growing in his father's shadow, surrounded by people focused more on duty than forming personal bonds.
Author seems to be trying to say there is no easy balance to strike between compassion and pragmatism, as both are necessary.