- What are the actual questions these two articles are debating? Try to articulate what the debate itself is over
The article, “I’m Not Ready for the Redemption of Men,” discusses the redemption of men who have committed sexual assault, harassment, or abuse. The argument Amer Tamblyn makes is that men do not deserve redemption from sexual misconduct, they deserve a real punishment and for their behavior to not be tolerated. The article, “When #MeToo Goes Too Far” debates the need for a hierarchy in sexual misconduct punishments. Bret Stephens believes that the punishments for accusations of sexual misconduct may be too extreme, specifically in places of workplace harassment, Bret Stephens argues that men shouldn’t have their professional lives destroyed for something that could be handled by an apology and suspension.
- For your assigned article, write a one sentence summary of the argument, followed by three supporting claims.
Bret Stevens argues that while the #MeToo movement has been important in spreading awareness for victims, it has led to unfair consequences and life-ruining punishments for men accused of any type of sexual misconduct.
- To what extent do you agree or disagree with the argument being made in this article and why?
I agree slightly with this article, I do think it is unfair for a man’s life to be ruined. I believe people are capable of learning, growing, and moving forward. In the case of sexual harassment, I agree that “professional decapitation” may be an extreme consequence. However, I do believe that consequences and facing societal punishment is what it takes for anything more extreme in cases of sexual misconduct. As women have been disregarded for years, and sexual misconduct has been happening to so many, I think that it takes a greater scale consequence for men to realize that what they are doing is wrong, and to prevent them from doing it again. The large-scale accusations prove that this is not talked about enough, and not being prevented enough. Confronting men who have committed sexual misconduct is necessary to teach them and others that what they are doing is not okay. Overall, I do believe that people can learn from these consequences and grow as individuals. Careers and lives being ruined over this behavior in some cases is most definitely too extreme of a punishment.
