Acts of bigotry may stem from weakness, fear

January 17, 2025

With regards to hatred and bigotry, a different or additional tack might pay dividends. We need to add to our zeitgeist the concept that thoughts and acts of anger and hatred likely stem from weakness and fear. It’s basic “fight or flight,” is it not? Think of a mob chanting, “They will not replace us.” And of course to fight (i.e., lash out) shows “strength” … or feigns it at least. If the fear and weakness concept was ensconced into our collective psyche, then an individual might be less motivated to “announce” such weaknesses.

In the article and email [‘Acts of hate’: Bigoted graffiti at CCHS under investigation, The Concord Bridge, December 13, 2024], I found the words of decency that I expected. However, such sentiments have long been used, and where have they gotten us? Resolve and indignation give comfort to “the choir,” but to an immature, angry perpetrator, the ruffling of feathers is perceived as victory.

Perhaps we might all agree that the loftiest outcome for the recent incident would be for the perpetrator to grow and mature into a better person, rather than merely a more-punished person.

And do not ignore the phenomenon where punishment can elicit a double-down effect. Here, the vandalism repairs get paid for but another hater enters into society.

Cautiously, any attempt to plant the idea that, “Hey, frightened person, you need to know that you’re a frightened person” has to be done discreetly. The goal is to plant a concept and invite individuals to be proud of their own decency. “Must” and “should” statements will backfire; invite only.

With success, imagine a perpetrator in the hallway overhearing, “Why do you think someone would be so afraid of a boogeyman?” as compared to, “Do you think they’ll catch him?” Better still, imagine that the incident didn’t occur in the first place.

Rob Horne

Shagbark Road