Here Whitehead clarifies how, exactly,
At Zion Hill has affected Elwood. By helping him cultivate a sense of self-worth, the record instills in him the desire to protect his own “dignity.” To do this, he must oppose anything that might undermine his self-image. In turn, he feels compelled to stop his peers from stealing, believing that it’s his moral obligation to do so. Once again, then, readers see the strength of Elwood’s convictions, which force him to follow his moral compass regardless of the circumstances.