Context

When you judge someone present or past you need to include context. Someone who steals a loaf of bread to feed their child has a very different context from someone who steals something of great value to enrich them selves monetarily. Much of the media and protestors appear to be missing this ability.

When children are very young they cannot place things in context. They are very literal. As parent and teachers we help teach children about context. Sometimes we do a rather poor job when we say things like…”Because I said so” or “Because I am your Mother”. Although true statements, they do not help give greater meaning to the context. That greater meaning could include the past experiences that led you to tell a child that doing something was wrong. And in the heat of the moment you do not have time to explain to a child they could get seriously hurt if they touch the stove or run out in to the street. As teachers and parents we know we have to help place context so children learn to do it themselves in the future.

Why am I concerned about this now? Because it appears that many people have lost the ability to place things in context, to think critically for themselves and to realize that the ends (you have determined best) do not give you carte blanche on the means.

Am I comparing the current extremes to children? Yes, I am. In general they are not able to contextualize, see past their belief to include facts that are contradictory and they are reacting with vehement emotion that limits rational dialogue and thought.