The Rocket

Issue date: 3/2/07 Section: Rocket Letters

I have a problem with words too, especially those uttered impudently and without notable research to back them up. Dan Klein was very quick to label others as "simple-minded" when it is he who promotes such generalized, offensive and ignorant viewpoints. While freedom of speech affords him the right to say the things he did, I hereby propose a list of reasons why he shouldn't have said them. First, feminism takes many forms. I, as well as others, believe in the equality of women and men in economics, politics and society, as well as the abolishment of physical, mental and sexual abuse of women, and the ability for women to make their own decisions about their bodies. None of these positions are radical or extreme. They are all very real feminist beliefs, which do not involve the hatred or oppression of men.

If Mr. Klein believes that wearing a T-shirt which gives just cause for joining the women's movement is a form of unjust oppression, then I can't imagine what he would call physically assaulting a woman. There are those who might promote the radical idea of supplanting the patriarchy with a matriarchy, but I allege they do not walk the grounds of the Slippery Rock campus.

Secondly, environmentalism is an issue that everyone should explore, but it most certainly is not an issue that requires everyone to "completely destroy" their lives. On the contrary, anyone can make lifestyle decisions that lead to a richer, healthier and more eco-friendly life. To use Mr. Klein's example of water conservation, by turning off the faucet while brushing, taking shorter showers, or flushing the toilet less often, anyone can lower their water bills. More money in your pocket poses a thousand beneficial uses. Environmentalism doesn't stop at water consumption either. Adequate home insulation means a warmer home and lower heating bills. Fuel-efficient vehicles means less money spent on gas and lower dependency on fossil fuels. The list goes on. Environmental ethics involve personal choices that jointly promote a high standard of living, an equitable global community and a beautiful Earth for future generations.

Mark Twain once mused, "Better to keep your mouth shut and be thought a fool, than to open it and remove all doubt." Dan Klein's opinion article was simple-minded and its content reflects poorly on the staff of The Rocket, who ignored its responsibility to present opinions that are "fair and accurate." Mr. Klein would be wise to enroll in one of the university's courses in the women's studies or environmental geosciences departments to better understand these issues.

Alex Cline

Senior

Computer Science

Page 1 of 1

Article Tools