There are many many questions here on yahoo answers, that refer to christians, moslems, atheists, neo-cons, liberals, democrats, repuplicans, immigrants etc etc.
While a lot are obviously asked frivolously, many are serious in their intent.
I have found that, if I think of other people as "people", rather than categorizing them as some'thing' or other, I am forced to empathise and have to form a reasoned, coherent opinion. One that is not based on dogma or tradition or predjudice.
Could more solutions be found to more problems, if we only started to think of each other as "people".
2007-11-28 08:58:10 · 7 answers · asked by Taffd 3 in Politics & Government ➔ Politics
No.
2007-11-28 09:00:27 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 1⤋
I went to a Catholic school & then into nursing.
At school we were instructed to put God first; others next & myself last. Nursing training had similar principles + a requirement to never be judgemental.
All good rules.
It is very disappointing that in society in general in the UK today there is so little regard for the 'other'.
Although 'Thatcherism' is blamed for the 'me me me' selfishness that is evident now surely intelligent individuals should be able to show some sympathy if not empathy (we can never truly walk in another's shoes)
I believe you have asked a very fundamental question that all of us should consider.
It is only when this happens that policy & decision making will benefit us all.
I notice that some replies to your question do indeed reflect the 'zeitgeist'. Very sad.
2007-11-29 01:58:14 · answer #2 · answered by fizzywo 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
You know that's a funny question. I firmly believe there is a great deal more that you can do with a capable small group of people who support each other than you can do with an army of backstabbing sycophants. I know for a fact that this approach works at getting things done in a more complete and professional manner.
You won't find a lot of people who are willing to do it though. For some reason a large percentage of the population is very self-serving even though they serve themselves better by working toward the success of their colleagues. I completely agree with you about labeling people being dehumanizing.
2007-11-28 17:06:51 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
A serious answer:
I have no problem viewing others as "people" in the general sense, or of not being categorized....
at the same time however....
I am a republican, a Christian, and other things and I am fine with people putting me in those "boxes" because I belong there. I may not be what they think of people in those "boxes" but I am with those people nonetheless and I am good with that.
I understand your point, but also acknowledge the "box" is a reality. For example: I am a Christian and can no more separate that from myself as I could separate the fact that I am a person. If some dislike me or refuse to hear me because of that....I find that to be a problem that is not mine but theirs.
2007-11-28 17:12:44 · answer #4 · answered by Calvin 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
I agree -- once one is reduced to a concept, one is easier to dismiss and easier to regard as an object rather than a person.
That aside, this forum does provide both entertainment and the occasional enlightenment for me. As a Democrat, I enjoy hearing reasonable arguments from Republicans about chosen candidates, as well as Democratic candidates who may also be worthy.
I think this labeling is only worrisome when it encroaches on "real life." I cringe when someone uses "liberal" or "neocon" in ordinary conversation...
2007-11-28 17:11:23 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 2⤊ 0⤋
Most don't want to empathize, or see someone as human. They would have to think. That in turn would quell their self-righteous anger. They would learn to love. That removes all dogma, tradition and prejudice. Then peace might break out. Then what?
2007-11-28 17:12:30 · answer #6 · answered by gone 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
stop being empathetic, nobody cares
2007-11-28 17:00:22 · answer #7 · answered by NEO PIRATE 3 · 1⤊ 2⤋