Consequences for doing Stupid...but not really...

This is my reply to a thread on FB regarding that ridiculous UCLA "Asians In The Library" woman. There's an "educate rather than punish" sort of discussion around this topic. And I have no problem with punishment, in addition to educating on why you're being punished. Others out there in the world don't believe punishment of any kind is the answer, I think. That's too bad.
Comments were made about her freedom of speech, and how she apologized, and she's said to have left school.

My first comment:

Punishment has it's place. I agree that educating is a step in change, but it's not the only step. This thing ---> "consequence" -- is also a great teaching tool. I've seen that happen all the time too. I think sometimes people need both of... these things.
One thing I've noticed about people, is that many of them continue to do stupid, harmful things because peers are doing same stupid, harmful things and not one of them has suffered any real negative consequence from it. They don't even consider not doing it, cause everything looks fine from where they are sitting.


After following comments, I then felt my reply was getting too long and didn't want to annoy Hugo, so posted here:


Don't know about anyone else, but I'm not referring to her freedom of speech, student activity, university policies, or any of that. Also never said the school should have kicked her out. nor do I condone nonsense such as death threats. Now that that's outta the way....

When I say 'punishment', I'm talking about consequences to her actions. (which some people don't think she should have?) I consider having hordes of people across the planet suddenly despise you, a punishment.

Action: She posted a very offensive, stupid and insensitive video for the whole world to see. Consequence: The world replied with a "no thanks and STFU". She got told about herself.

So? This is what happens outside the comfort and safety of pals, family, back-patting and hand holding. Am I saying that people can't be foolish and make mistakes? Nope, we all do. I'm saying that mistakes STILL come with consequences/punishments, whether you like it or not, that can be just as much of a learning experience as things learned in a classroom, and trying to shield people clearly in the wrong from real-world fallout is not doing them any favors. She is not a child, she's an adult college student. If now is not the time to live and learn and start building character, then when is?

It's good that people apologize. But you can't go back in time. People effected by bad things, are still effected by it, regardless of apology that comes after. This is why the person who is genuinely
apologizing for their actions, and not just looking for a quick-shutupandgoaway-fix, has to understand that while they are sorry and asking for forgiveness, damage already done cannot be undone and results of it are still out there, and may effect them still.

I can't imagine what fair person would think NO consequence should come after her sad and ridiculous commentary on Asians. Oh well. I love it how personal responsibility and accountability are encouraged sometimes and for some people, but not always or for everyone.

Also, regarding education for the ignorant.... I agree. It is absolutely necessary to educate, but in the meantime, the rest of us are being subjected to crap. The world doesn't have 10 years to wait for this girl to "turn around". And by that I mean, regardless of what she thinks in her head, and how quickly or slowly her world views are coming along, I think we'd like for her to stop making offensive videos, right now. Not later, when she's a better person. Maybe.

I think thats another thing some people, particularly Privileged, don't quite get. Stuff like this is a slap to the face, happening in real time. While fighting ignorance through education is great, putting a foot down on people who are slapping others across the face right in front of you, is also great. Why should everyone else continue to be subjected to sexism/racism/bigotry/hate, etc... while the offending person is on the waiting list to be educated? While a negative consequence may not quickly change a person's heart, it can definitely change their mind (seen it) and spare the rest of us their hurtful opinions.


Just sayin'...