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The following is a bit of a tongue-in-check role reversal on phobias
and tolerance…
You say that broccoli
unhealthy: That it causes cancer, that it is addicting, that there should be
warning labels telling of its risks, that advertising directed at kids should
be stopped, that others shouldn't be subjected to the secondary effects of
those who are foolish enough to use broccoli…
You say that the
companies that produce broccoli products and promote their use are responsible
for a pandemic of health concerns and should be held accountable for the
medical costs and sued for billions.
You say that the evidence
is irrefutable - smoking, dipping, chewing, i.e. doing anything related to broccoli
use, while presumably enjoyable, is bad socially, physically and economically and,
therefore, should be stopped. The office
should be broccoli free. The boardroom
should be broccoli free. Even bars and
restaurants should be broccoli free.
You say that, addictions
aside, you and I still have the freedom and responsibility to choose not to eat
broccoli: That it is bad for me and bad for my neighbors and that I should
consider stopping.
I say - But I am
predisposed to eat broccoli, I like broccoli, I am born this way. It's not a
choice. It is my identity. It's not simply
a behavior. It's my being!
I say - You are a
broccoli hater. You must be afraid of those who eat broccoli. You are intolerant. You are broccophobic.
You say - You are being
ridiculous. Human beings are much more
than the sum total of their behaviors and it is a non-sequitur to claim that
those who disagree with you are afraid of you.
Stop using ad hominem attacks. Be
more thoughtful. Be more open-minded. Let's debate.
I say - But I might be
found out. My logic might be found
lacking. The facts might be against me
and I can't tolerate that.