Some metaphors are loaded
Some metaphors are loaded
Sometimes we pay a price for free speech, which is rich in metaphors. Metaphors are used to inspire, describe, and motivate. We see them in great literature, proverbs, and public discourse. But the key to understanding metaphors lies in our ability to think abstractly as opposed to concretely or literally. We know, for example, that Dr. King didn’t really climb a mountain. He was speaking metaphorically.
The metaphorical use of terms and images like “reload” and rifle crosshairs have been blamed for inspiring the Arizona shooter. At this point no one knows what inspired or motivated him.
However, perhaps we can use this tragedy to understand something about mental illness and the use of language. As a mental health counselor, I offer the following observations:
If this man was mentally ill and he suffered from a psychosis, his ability to think abstractly may have been impaired. He may have been more suggestible to inflammatory metaphors. He may have inferred a literal call-to-arms. He may have felt that he had a mission to accomplish.
The metaphorical pronouncements by famous public figures may be distorted or misinterpreted by some alienated, disenfranchised persons who struggle with reality testing. Perhaps from the vast array of free speech options, they can choose those that even if misinterpreted, may be less likely to have tragic consequences
Tom Arens, Canfield
Violent people will find a way
I am as sorry as anyone for the pain inflected in Tucson by an armed gunman. But I really don’t see how any of the proposed gun laws would have helped Rep Gabrielle Giffords, D-Ariz., or anyone else hurt.
I just can’t believe that people wanting to do violence to others won’t find a way, with or without gun laws.
Add this to the fact what the Second Amendment does give us the right to bear arms, and I guess you can say I’m against gun control.
I just hope the recent tragedy in Tucson doesn’t push the country to make a decision we will all regret later.
Lets stop and take a break while we think this through. Acting on emotion is not usually a good thing.
Larry Williamson, Cortland