09-13-2007
09:53 PM
2 Loves
I just came across a report of a second incident (http://www.cnn.com/2007/US/09/13/airline.dress.ap/index.html), and by all means let me begin with: I wasn't there for either incident, so I can be certain that I don't have all the relevant details. That said, however, there seems to be an increasing discussion of what is or isn't offensive in our culture. In this case, it's specifically "appropriate dress," but the details aren't important. What's important is that I fear the discussion originates mostly from a very small but very vocal minority, and doesn't reflect the views of the average citizen. In this case, as has been stated repeatedly, Southwest Airlines does not have an official passenger dress code, and while many service providers in many different industries "reserve the right to refuse service to any person for any reason," I don't really see that, without a policy in place, one flight attendant's opinion as to what constitutes "good taste" is an acceptable reason to harrass a paying customer. The broader issue, however, is: to what extent can a vocal minority inflict their views on everyone else? Yes it's a "free country," but with freedom comes responsibility, and in the case of "free speech" that means you have the right to speak out about issues, but not the right to force others to conform to your boundaries. People who believe they should be able to go forth into the world and have nothing offend them rank right up there with people who believe they should experience no pain and suffering during their lifetimes, or else they should be monetarily compensated for it. The world is a dangerous place, you might get hurt, think about that before you leave your house, and don't believe you have the "right" to a multi-million-dollar settlement if you -do- get hurt. The world is also often offensive. Too bad. If you have a delicate constitution, don't leave your charming small-town / suburb / living-complex / whatever, but don't demand that the world stop offending you. I'm offended every day by the blatantly (and often, dangerously) stupid people commuting on the highways with me. But they're not going to stop commuting just because I complain about them. I have to do my part to get where I'm going as safely as possible, knowing that they're out there. Same goes for other forms of offense and as well for danger. Do your part to keep yourself safe and comfortable, but understand that a variety of people and conditions exist in your world, and deal with people and situations appropriately. And keep in mind, people might find you offensive as well, but have the "good taste" not to say anything about it....
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