I refer to the reports “Those who harassed Philippine Independence Day organisers ‘a disgrace to S’pore’: PM Lee” (online) and “S’poreans should say no to bigotry, says Tan Chuan-Jin” (both April 19).
The use, and misuse, of words can be dangerous. I agree with the Prime Minister and the Manpower Minister that the actions of those who “peddle hate” are unacceptable.
At the same time, not everyone possesses the linguistic ability to express his/her thoughts or emotions in a tactful and socially acceptable manner, much less be constructive and shape ideas for the greater good.
I agree that any form of harassment is undesirable. Perhaps, though, we should draw the line at calling individuals or groups bigots without giving them the chance to explain themselves.
We should not neglect the possibility that among this group may be reasonable Singaporeans who might have come to their conclusions for good reason and might be trying to highlight concerns by expressing various degrees and forms of dissatisfaction.
My hope is that those with the linguistic ability will, in their discourse, acknowledge and address the complex, manifold nature of each situation as it presents itself in our social space.
Daniel Ho Sheng
*Article first appeared on TodayOnline Forums (1 May 2014)