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No, it doesn't require that the groups be interchangeable. The point is that if something would be a racist attack if directed at one race, it would have the sa
by SiVal 6y ago
No, it doesn't require that the groups be interchangeable. The point is that if something would be a racist attack if directed at one race, it would have the same nature if directed at any race. If it would be just a non-racist statement of fact that is critical of one race, it would be the same no matter which race it was directed at.
People will argue over the facts, naturally. That's as it should be. But if you are encouraged to criticize one race without penalty, whether the criticism is factually correct or not, but you aren't allowed to criticize another without being guilty of "racism", whether the criticism is factually correct or not, it's not about the facts. It's about who you can criticize and who you can't, regardless of your specific claims or evidence.
In other words, if you want to judge its nature, swap races. If the only thing that would happen if you swapped races is someone would say, "well then that wouldn't be factually correct", then it IS just about facts. But if instead, those in power would rage about racism and punish the "offender", they are not merely disputing facts. Something else is happening.
- comex 6y ago> It's about who you can criticize and who you can't, regardless of your specific claims or evidence. Suppose you criticize someone for being slow at reading. It's not the nicest thing to say, but it's run of the mill as criticisms go. But then suppose you criticize someone for being slow at reading who has dyslexia. That would be considered extremely insensitive and rude, even if it's factually correct. Suppose you say "I screwed up". Pretty unremarkable; self-deprecation is common in our culture, and people won't consider it a sign you're being too hard on yourself, unless the mistake you made was extremely minor or harmless. But then suppose you say "You screwed up". That would be considered far too aggressive and direct for most situations. Of course it matters who you're criticizing.