“Have You Ever Considered That Your Presence Poses a Risk to Other Participants and the Public?”
In responding to criticism of the question, the journalist says that he’s not anti-Israel (see here), and I have no reason to doubt that. He also notes, “everyone struggles with some thoughts on this matter”:
Eden Golan brings risk and danger to Malmo as a singer of her beautiful country—even if it is a broadcasting competition. Crazy supporters of Hamas can take advantage of the situation and the interest in the [Eurovision Song Contest] for various activities. This was the question and nothing else
Here’s my thinking: Of course someone has to consider the risk posed by the presence of people who are potential targets for attack—whether prominent Israelis, or Salman Rushdie, targets of crazed nonpolitical stalkers, or anyone else. It’s the job of security people to consider those very risks, in deciding how to effectively protect the event (and I hope not in deciding to exclude the potential victim). And of course other people may indeed struggle with their own thoughts on this matter. Worry about risk of violence is a natural human reaction.
But the implication of the journalist’s question wasn’t, I think, just “Did the risk cross your mind?” Rather, the implication was, “Shouldn’t you feel obligated to stay away because of the risk that people might attack you and in the process injure bystanders?,” with the answer to that implied question being “Yes.”
And that, it seems to me, isn’t right. The response to such threats of violence generally has to be to defy them, and not to allow them to control our lives, as a matter of law or as a matter of m
Article from Reason.com
The Reason Magazine website is a go-to destination for libertarians seeking cogent analysis, investigative reporting, and thought-provoking commentary. Championing the principles of individual freedom, limited government, and free markets, the site offers a diverse range of articles, videos, and podcasts that challenge conventional wisdom and advocate for libertarian solutions. Whether you’re interested in politics, culture, or technology, Reason provides a unique lens that prioritizes liberty and rational discourse. It’s an essential resource for those who value critical thinking and nuanced debate in the pursuit of a freer society.