[pbateman]

Here is exactly how you deal with some guy writing in to tell you you're too fat: delete the email and get on with your life.

It's simple, it's easy, it solves the problem.

Of course it's not the modern solution of publicly bullying your correspondent into a retraction while claiming the moral high ground but it works and it's less unpleasant.

[PhasmaFelis]

It is, of course, important to pick one's battles; but wherever possible, bullshit should be called out and dragged into the light, not quietly tolerated. Especially when, as in this case, it is widespread, entrenched, pernicious bullshit.

And you've got the "bullying" backwards. It wasn't Ms. Livingston doing it. You should know by now that "sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me" is a comforting lie we tell to children.

[gizmo686]

In the language of the article, shouldn't that be "post-modern"?

[icecreampain]

Using your solution will not get the complainant the media time the person so very much craves.