SAFETYISM

(The beginnings of a correspondence.)

“Also, and this is a side note, I've been wrestling with the idea of safetyism. If I understand it correctly, it's the hyper-focus of emotional comfort that can be subjectively used in exclusionary ways...often at the expense of expression and open dialogue. It almost seems like a red-flag one can throw in order to control the environment, tuning and centering it to their emotional comfort. 

Folks like Jonathan Haidt believe that this can contribute to a culture of censorship and cancellation, where dissenting or controversial ideas are suppressed to maintain a perceived sense of safety. The culture of safetyism tends to discourage confronting discomfort or engaging with perspectives that challenge pre-existing beliefs. Ironically, a way of championing diversity, equity, and inclusion can possibly be mechanized as a tool of control. 

I didn't include it in my open letter, but it's something that I'm rolling around right now...just thinking about it. 

There's no rush, or need to get back if you can't...I'll understand. If there's ever a window, I would love to know your thoughts on it some time.”