Society's Slippery Slope
Where Are We Headed?
Warning: This is about reflection. I like to question, ponder, and wonder about things. If you have a weak stomach, don’t read this; it’s not worth your time. This is for those who want to look at things objectively. In no way, shape, or form am I claiming that I am “right.” It’s an invitation to explore where we can find common ground to make changes, rather than declaring one camp right and the other wrong.
So, having lived abroad for so many years now I can tell you, being removed from the unrelenting drama spiral in the USA I feel I’m seeing things through a less emotional lens and honestly it makes me think, what the f*ck has happened to the USA. Is it going the way of ancient Greece, Rome, or even taking direction from Hitler?
I can't understand how quickly people have bought into cancel culture. While I thought, “Hell, Rob, why comment?” I decided to speak up after reading the quote below. I paused, reflected, and thought, “Yeah, I want to say something because that's just me.” And if those of you with weak stomachs are reading this and already getting upset, I suggest that you leave.
“$44 Billion was not the cost of Twitter. It was the cost of restoring Free Speech.”
How Did We Get Here?
How has the trend of cancel culture, something that has become so insidious and toxic become normal thought? While the intention behind cancel culture is often to promote equality and protect marginalized groups, it raises critical questions about whether we are going too far in our pursuit of these ideals. Personally, I was told a few years ago by a now-former friend that I was rude for disagreeing during a conversation with “important” people. I can’t tell you how many people I know who question, “Should I post this? There might be backlash.” As a result, we sit silently in a corner to avoid ruffling feathers. Ruffle feather alert!
This phenomenon has gone so far to take on the ugliness of public shaming and ostracism of individuals or institutions deemed offensive or unacceptable. Even the President was visibly publicly shamed to expedite (force) his exit from the presidential race. It looks and smells like a new form of bullying - all for the common good. Hmm, didn’t Hitler think the same thing? By the way, nice show of leadership and teamwork from his own party. Yes, I’m being ironic. Poor Joe.
The Origins and Evolution of Cancel Culture
Cancel culture emerged as a truly needed means of expressing public disapproval of behaviors deemed offensive. Yet today – as with any social media muscle flexing – it has become a widespread form of harmful social justice activism – often blurring the lines between legitimate critique and unwarranted censorship.
Personal Encounter with Cancel Culture
Let me share a recent firsthand experience that demonstrates the reach of cancel culture – a true waste of time and energy.
In my latest book, I used the iconic line from the original TV Star Trek show: “To boldly go where no man has gone before.” I was told, more than once, I should not use it because of the use of man and was suggested to replace it with person or everyone. “Man” I was told is offensive and not inclusive and could cause backlash. Am I supposed to shiver in my boots afraid to express myself? Are we supposed to seek consensus on what we should say, even though we mean no ill will, but it “might” be perceived as non-inclusive? Is not written work a form of art? This incident highlights the extent to which cancel culture can intrude into our personal expressions and creative works. Really, the word “man” used in the original (key word – original) context is “offensive” and “not inclusive”? That’s opinion - not fact.
Where Does It Stop?
Rewriting History: The push to rewrite history and alter cultural icons, in my opinion, is a concerning trend. For instance, should we make James Bond Chinese, Dorothy Gale visually impaired, or GI Joe a hermaphrodite? These characters were created in specific contexts, and altering them undermines their original intent and cultural significance.
Yes, I agree that evolution in thought is necessary, but I see something wrong in this type of “editing” solution. It’s particularly problematic because it attempts to appease a population at a superficial level rather than addressing deeper issues of inequality and social justice. By changing these icons, we are not truly advancing towards a more equitable society; instead, we are merely altering the surface without addressing the underlying structures that perpetuate inequality. It feels like appeasement. It’s akin to those ridiculous tethered bottle caps – using more plastic to tackle a problem created by plastic. This approach gives the illusion of addressing the issue, but it fails to actually solve it.
True progress requires a profound commitment to understanding and transforming these systemic issues, rather than just making cosmetic changes. While I wholeheartedly support the pursuit of equality, I firmly believe that rewriting history and altering cultural icons is not a sufficient solution.
Madonna Mia: At this rate, (if you are that sensitive type that I suggested to leave - stop reading now) why not make the Virgin Mary a dyslexic lesbian who, after Christ's death, started a Mothers Against Crucifixion movement.
We are essentially rewriting history and cultural icons to fit modern sensibilities, but in doing so, we are losing the historical and cultural context that makes these figures meaningful. Why don’t we start burning and banning books. Oh wait, weren’t some Dr. Seuss books pulled in 2021 for “cultural issues”? This is not progress; it is a form of cultural vandalism that erases the past rather than learning from it.
Double Standards: Yeah, I'll admit I am not a huge fan of the Olympics, but I think we all paused for a moment when France revealed some key assets. I mean, who can forget the jokes about Jules' “baguette”? First, kudos to Jules for winning the genetic lottery, but second, the behavior that followed is a stark example of double standards. Why is it okay for a woman to crack jokes about a guy's “baguette” and yet a man can't make jokes about a woman's “melons”?
The answer usually lies in the fact that women have been historically marginalized and objectified for so long. I agree it is right to acknowledge and address that. However, is it not the case that one group is now asking for their triggers to remain untouched instead of learning how to dismantle them and find personal power? Should there not be a space where individuals are willing to take what they dish out? What I mean by that is we can’t use the weapons of “marginalization” and “objectification” to punish others or cry “not fair,” while simultaneously behaving in ways we don’t want to be treated. This behavior doesn’t justify the double standard; instead, it highlights the need for a more balanced and respectful approach to humor and communication.
If we want a level playing field, can't we all learn to joke and give each other space to be authentic? This inconsistency raises serious questions about the fairness and equity of cancel culture. Let's find a way to laugh together and respect each other's boundaries, rather than policing every joke and comment.
Historical Context: If you are that sensitive type and still here, hold onto your seat. The use of certain words or expressions in the past, such as Trump's use of the word “P****,” was not uncommon. I recall working on Wall Street in the 80s, where such language was prevalent. And let’s be honest - I’m sure Bill Clinton used some choice words with Monica – he just wasn’t caught with his pants down. Oh wait, he was.
Yes, expanding consciousness is vital to the growth and health of a society – I am not disagreeing. It is also equally important to explain and teach its inappropriateness. However, are we getting it wrong by condemning people for what was considered a “norm” back in the day? I mean, seriously, watch The Flintstones; that was the consciousness that existed back then. Or have we decided to delete that from our culture? Have we condemned Fred?
The Problem of "Ticking Boxes"
Now, let’s look at the discussion surrounding Kamala Harris. By the way, there is no political intention here - personally, I do not define myself by a party. So, back to Kamala. The focus is often on how she "ticks all the boxes" – female, black, Asian American. Is this what humanity is barreling towards? A society where individuals are valued based on how many demographic boxes they check rather than their unique qualities, skills, and contributions? This approach reduces individuals to mere checklists, ignoring the complexities and richness of human experience. Where is the diversity?
领英推荐
True diversity is about our mindset, yet are we being asked to conform, act alike, and become uniform – normalized, even homogenized? Doesn't this undermine the very diversity of our mindsets?
Hey Mark
One of the most alarming aspects of cancel culture is the influence of government on private entities to suppress free speech. A recent example involves Meta's CEO, Mark Zuckerberg, who revealed that the Biden administration pressured his company to censor specific content related to COVID-19. An administration that lied about the competency of the president and were willing to let the fable of his cognitive abilities continue, all to support their worldviews. I suppose that makes it acceptable.
Hey Hunter
Additionally, Zuckerberg acknowledged that his team had "demoted" a news story about Hunter Biden's laptop ahead of the 2020 election, following an FBI warning about potential Russian disinformation. However, it has since been clarified that the reporting was not Russian disinformation, and Zuckerberg regrets this decision. Oh, and yeah, didn’t Hunter just plead guilty, but I guess it was ok to try and cover it all up to support a majority's world view? Is that the definition of propaganda? And, interesting that he changed his plea after it was obvious Daddy was going to be ousted. Hmm…
So What Can We Do About This?
First, we need to remove emotions from our decision-making and reactions. Emotional decision-making will set us up for failure. Instead, we must approach these issues with a clear and rational mindset. Yes, I know - easier said than done but it’s worth an attempt because overall feelings of division have increased.
A Unified Call to Action
To navigate the complexities of cancel culture and the dangers of rewriting history, we must find a balance between promoting equality and preserving individual uniqueness.
Embracing Equivalence Over Equality
The concept of equivalence over equality offers a nuanced approach to addressing the complexities of human differences. It acknowledges and celebrates individual uniqueness while striving for equal worth and value. Key principles include:
By taking these steps, I believe we can work towards a society that values diversity, respects individual uniqueness, and promotes a culture of empathy and understanding. Let us strive for a world where everyone feels valued and respected, without sacrificing the very essence of what makes us human.
Two great books if you want to go deeper are:
The Final Question
Are we truly advancing towards a more equitable society by rewriting history and canceling cultural icons, or are we merely appeasing a false sense of progress? The answer lies in finding a balance that respects our differences while promoting a culture of empathy, understanding, and inclusivity. It is time to boldly go where no one has gone before, but with the wisdom to learn from our past and the courage to celebrate our unique humanity.
Invitation
I have another space where I not only provide insights and tools, but we meet once a month in a group one-hour Q&A. It’s a bit more raw and unfiltered but for a specific reason.
It’s said when we encounter language or stimuli that are emotionally charged or provocative, it can stimulate the brain in ways that promote neuroplasticity by,
Therefore, why not harness strong language used intentionally, in a safe space, as a disruptor for habitual thinking to do just that?
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