Re: [Fwd: censorship]
Ruth Kedar (kedar@kedardesigns.com)
Mon, 13 Jul 1998 11:43:34 -0700
In the heels of Saelon's email, I too am joining this discussion "a little
late".
I thoroughly agree that we should at all times require a minimum level of
courtesy in our dialogs and discussion, specially when we are dealing with
issues we feel passionate about.
I would also like to point out, that as our membership widens and we
embrace peoples from various points of the globe, we have some
responsibilities as well. Tolerance and diplomacy to name a few.
It is indeed "cool" that this technology allows us to reach one another
instantly anywhere in the globe. However, let us not forget, that it is not
"communication" unless we make an effort to understand one another. I think
Mr. Smylie crossed the line of good taste too many times. However, reading
his and Michael's last messages, I cannot but find a few areas of
misunderstandings and jumping the gun too quickly. For example, I don't
think Mr. Smiley understands English colloquialisms. In his frame of mind
"we all" immediately translates into imperialism; "public" (as in a public
forum) is nothing short of despicable denouncement - an "unjusticed" David
thrown against Goliath.
A lot of it has to do with culture differences, special meanings some words
adopt in certain cultures: a mountain made out of interpretations and
misinterpretations. I cannot but think that all of this could be avoided if
we were a little more aware of our differences, and did not immediately
assume the worst of one another.
I find it unfortunate that such incidents should taint a project that is as
commendable as it is worthy. We should all be thankful of Michael's effort
of putting together this project.
Ruth
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Ruth Kedar (650) 566-1900
kedar@art.net
http://www.art.net/~kedar
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