Opinions

Shalit disrespected

In print | April 10, 2008

To the Editor:

Like many others who attended the “Modesty: an Alternative Lifestyle” lecture, I walked out in extreme disappointment. But the source of my disappointment was not only the presentation itself. The lecturer presented what could have been an eye-opening talk that gave insight into what it is like for men and women living in the aftermath and re-creation of a sexual revolution. I share the opinion that she did not effectively represent what it means to be “sexually liberated” and how the very essence of this proclaimed “liberation” at times can prove equally as binding as sexual repression. I felt that what could have been a philosophically rich and thought-provoking presentation was unfortunately simplified to include extreme examples of unhappy women partaking in the hook-up culture with low self-esteem.

However, the point of this letter is not to criticize the lecturer, as many have already voiced their opinions. Instead, I would like to examine what I found to be even more disturbing — the response of the audience. As I walked into the lecture there were murmurs of excitement and a heightened energy in the room. The atmosphere was largely antagonistic and it seemed that at least half of the people attending were there to pick a fight rather than listen respectfully to an alternative perspective. My surprise and frustration grew as I began to hear groans, snickers, jeering and several loud outbursts throughout the lecturer’s speech. It was not until a first-year student finally stood up and asked the audience to show some respect that the assaults were subdued.

I was shocked that we could behave in such a disrespectful and dehumanizing manner. Even if the lecturer had made her point more effectively, I doubt that any message would have been able to permeate the hostile atmosphere we created for her in that room.

I am proud to be a student at Swarthmore, but I was embarrassed by the behavior that I witnessed that night. We are better than that. So, I urge my fellow students to join me in embracing our Quaker roots by working to create an atmosphere where ideas, even those we may vehemently disagree with, can actually be debated and explored in a respectful atmosphere that affirms the dignity of everyone in the room.

Opinions

Shalit disrespected

To the Editor:

Sarah Noble ’10