| The problem (as I see it, and agree with gp's formulation) is of communities failing to police their own by using double-standards. One set for "us", one set for "them." It's okay for one of "us" to be rude, aggressive, or argue outside of good faith. Because it's in service of justice. But heaven forbid "they" do the same thing. In which case they're terrible people, how dare they, etc. This happens in both liberal-dominated and conservative-dominated forums. And the solution is for each and every one of us, at all times, to call a duck a duck. If someone is an asshole, they're an asshole. Full stop. They should be held to the same standards as anyone else, encouraged to modify their behavior and more closely adhere to general common decency towards other people, or kicked out of their role within the organization. Because, ultimately, they're a cancer. It's just a question of how long before it metastasizes. And idealogical purity is no balm for failing to be a good person. PS: Which isn't to say that one can't pursue just causes. Just make sure your own house is in order before throwing rocks. |
I mean, it's kind of ironic: Calling someone an asshole is undoubtedly rude and aggressive (even when done in good faith). And you said that it's not only ok but necessary when you perceive someone as an asshole. But above you complained exactly about "being rude/aggressive in service of justice". So... which is it?