Re: Merely Human? was Re: ethnocentrism and extropianism?

From: Samantha Atkins (samantha@objectent.com)
Date: Wed Jun 05 2002 - 02:53:40 MDT


Lee Corbin wrote:

> Samantha writes

> 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.

I certainly notice when people are exhibiting all of these
traits. But since I have exhibited some of them myself at some
time or another in some measure, I tend not to look down on
them. If I can and if they have room to hear it I will attempt
to introject something that helped me and others get past such
behavior. But having seen my won foibles often enough I feel
more compassion than condescension, usually, although there are
certainly times I engage in the latter also.

Thanks for clearing it up.

- samantha



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