From: Lee Corbin (lcorbin@tsoft.com)
Date: Wed Jun 05 2002 - 00:06:13 MDT
Samantha writes
> > Likewise, I could come up with a list of those we routinely
> > disparage or discriminate against: people who are inarticulate,
> > stupid, or not well-informed.
>
> But are you saying that these people you also consider 'inferior
> and expendable'? It is not clear from your wording.
No, otherwise I *would* have lumped them in with those bacteria,
animals, and criminals that I do find expendable. :-) I guess
that it's necessary, alas, even on this list, to state firmly
that I don't think stupid people are expendable.
> I agree with your point but I still wonder when if you look down
> on people and what you believe that does and does not justify.
Me? Well, being one not to shy away from a question, I
look down upon the uncouth, the boastful, the arrogant,
the stupid, the mendacious, the loud, the dishonest, the
violent, and those who bully others. It justifies me not
inviting them to my birthday parties, not talking often or
long with them, sometimes speaking frankly about them to
others, and discriminating against them in various more
subtle ways. It doesn't justify me waging campaigns
against them, doing violence unto them, or denouncing
them to the authorities (unless the violence or bullying
is really extreme).
This does not mean that the people who sometimes fit
squarely into the above categories can expect no help
or sympathy from me, however. When conditions are just
right, I do want to extend a helping hand towards them;
but be assured, it is, fortunately or unfortunately, an
act of condescension, God help me.
What about you?
Lee
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