By true values I mean that with which someone claims to identify themselves - their true nature/essence with i.e. not a symptom of some current dysfunction.
I realise that it is desirable and mature to separate someone from their behaviour and true values. However, to what extent is this truly possible if this forms who they really are/represent?
An example - someone who is actively (blatantly) racist or sexist. If this forms a large part of their character, then to undermine such a mindset and try to redeem them by saying they are quite kind to certain others is a false appraisal isn't it?
I realise that by saying 'redeem' themselves I am displaying a value judgement (which makes spiritually focused people go
) but let's not throw the baby out with the bath water here, i.e. it's still possible to use discernment to perceive what is taking place.
Someone who undermines others (as in racism and sexism) is unworthy of being 'let off'. Of course other qualities they have can be acknowledged but I am interested here in to what extent does someone's true values/behaviour define themselves as a person.
What I'm getting at is that to just look at the behaviour of a person and separate who they are from it may not be an authentic separation if it's truly representative of their identity.
I realise it's possible for such views to be challenged and that, possibly, the person may take stock and, if not change, certainly moderate their views. Although to what extent this is playing the politically correct game or it being a true measure of progress is debatable.
Discuss!
I realise that it is desirable and mature to separate someone from their behaviour and true values. However, to what extent is this truly possible if this forms who they really are/represent?
An example - someone who is actively (blatantly) racist or sexist. If this forms a large part of their character, then to undermine such a mindset and try to redeem them by saying they are quite kind to certain others is a false appraisal isn't it?
I realise that by saying 'redeem' themselves I am displaying a value judgement (which makes spiritually focused people go
) but let's not throw the baby out with the bath water here, i.e. it's still possible to use discernment to perceive what is taking place. Someone who undermines others (as in racism and sexism) is unworthy of being 'let off'. Of course other qualities they have can be acknowledged but I am interested here in to what extent does someone's true values/behaviour define themselves as a person.
What I'm getting at is that to just look at the behaviour of a person and separate who they are from it may not be an authentic separation if it's truly representative of their identity.
I realise it's possible for such views to be challenged and that, possibly, the person may take stock and, if not change, certainly moderate their views. Although to what extent this is playing the politically correct game or it being a true measure of progress is debatable.
Discuss!
