Am I the only one who found this video of Susan Boyle more troubling than triumphant?
God bless Miss Boyle--I am happy she did well, though not convinced that the judges weren't expecting her that day. What bothers me though is the whole genre of shows that seem to be the modern day equivalent of the Roman Coliseum. No matter how Susan Boyle looked--and whether or not she had an iota of talent--she should not have been treated so rudely by leering judges or a jeering crowd.
One of the most important lessons a child can learn is the virtue of tact which, at base, is the art of not hurting others. I have had countless conversations with my children explaining the nuance of how certain actions, words, or facial expressions could insult other people, whether or not intended. This--I hope--will train them to be empathetic, sensitive, and kind-hearted.
It seems to me that a steady diet of "Britain's Got Talent" and the million other shows featuring judges mocking or insulting the unfortunate is already leading to a coarsening of society that will have long-term effect. (Can you imagine how a British audience fifty years ago would have treated a middle-aged woman on stage?)
If only we could bring back tact and delicacy.
