EWRT D1A_ Essay #2
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De Anza College *
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1A
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Industrial Engineering
Date
Jan 9, 2024
Type
docx
Pages
5
Uploaded by ColonelInternetFerret29
Thanh 1
Delina Thanh
Professor Alex Giardino
EWRT 1A
19 November 2023
Preamble
In the process of composing this essay, I did not seek external tutoring but did use AI
tools to enhance the quality of my work. To refine my grammar and ensure clarity, I relied on
Grammarly. I also used ChatGPT for two key purposes: crafting an initial outline. Upon my self-
assessment I believe I successfully conveyed and supported my perspective on Slater's claim,
drawing on textual evidence to reinforce my arguments. However, I recognize that there is room
for improvement, particularly in terms of incorporating more evidence from external sources. On
the whole, I would assign my essay a self-grade of 80%.
Tolerance vs. Complicity
"When does tolerance become complicity?"(Slater 327) a thoughtful question employed
by Slater that highlights the nuanced interplay between permitting offensive speech and the
inadvertent support it might lend to discrimination. While Slater emphasizes the legal protection
of offensive speech, she also prompts readers to consider the ethical implications and potential
harm associated with unchecked tolerance. In
Accountable
, it becomes evident that tolerance
transforms into complicity when it actively contributes to the marginalization or harm of
individuals or groups, serving as a compelling narrative that challenges readers to transcend the
boundaries of passive acceptance. Slater's narrative goes beyond merely acknowledging societal
issues, urging individuals to actively engage in dismantling oppressive structures. Slater's
narrative acts as a clarion call, compelling readers to assume the role of agents of change. She
Thanh 2
encourages her audience to participate in shaping a more equal and just society by skillfully
navigating the intricate dynamics of tolerance, complicity, and accountability.
Slater's exploration of tolerance delves into the acceptance or allowance of offensive
speech, emphasizing the legal framework protecting such expression. She goes on to highlight
how tolerance extends beyond a passive acceptance of diversity, urging individuals to actively
confront systemic inequalities and seek out the root causes of social issues. A vivid illustration of
this concept is found in
Accountable
when students protested just outside of Room 104. One
teacher recounts the scene, noting, “And the expression on their faces was just fierce. Like, ‘You
can’t intimidate us.’ It was powerful” (Slater 238). This portrayal underscores the potency of
collective tolerance, demonstrating its ability to bring about change and resilience. Slater
encourages readers to be proactive advocates for a more just and equitable world, fostering a
redefined approach to tolerance. By prompting readers to move beyond mere acknowledgment
and embrace active engagement, Slater positions them to become the transformative force the
world needs. This shift in perspective sets the stage for individuals to contribute to meaningful
change and work towards the creation of a society that upholds justice and equity.
On the contrary, complicity emerges as a counterpart to tolerance, signifying a more
active involvement or support for actions that may result in harm or discrimination. Whether it
manifests through silence or inaction, Slater challenges readers to confront their complicity. This
phenomenon parallels the "Bystander Effect," a psychological phenomenon wherein individuals
are less likely to intervene when others are present. In
Accountable
, the followers of
@yungcavage exemplify this behavior, with some recognizing the wrongfulness of certain
actions but choosing silence, dismissing them as "harmless jokes" among friends. This portrayal
reveals how these followers thought and behaved as if there was nothing to worry about. The
Thanh 3
portrayal of complicity as a shared responsibility for the consequences of societal ills prompts
readers to acknowledge their contributions to oppressive systems. Through acknowledging
complicity, readers are encouraged to become conscious disruptors of oppressive systems,
fostering a sense of responsibility that transcends passive observation and leads to meaningful
action. Slater's work thus serves as a call to arms, urging individuals to actively challenge and
dismantle complicit behaviors, fostering a societal shift towards justice and equity.
At the core of Slater's narrative lies the crucial theme of accountability, acting as the
linchpin that connects tolerance and complicity. In acknowledging accountability, individuals
recognize their pivotal role in shaping the collective narrative of society. Slater contends that
authentic accountability goes beyond mere acknowledgment of actions; it involves actively
seeking to rectify and enhance areas where impact falls short. This transcends performative
gestures, necessitating tangible efforts to contribute to positive social change. Embracing
accountability establishes a culture of transparency, where both individuals and institutions
uphold themselves to rigorous standards. Slater illustrates this point by depicting the Instagram
followers who, in their lack of accountability, failed to recognize the hurt and damage they
caused to their fellow classmates. Slater's work advocates for a transformative shift from
acknowledgment to actionable accountability, urging readers to meaningfully contribute to
societal progress. By embracing accountability, individuals can become agents of change,
playing a pivotal role in dismantling the structures that sustain societal injustices. Whether in
personal interactions or broader societal contexts, accountability emerges as a guiding principle
that empowers individuals to contribute to a more just, equitable, and compassionate world.
In a world characterized by numerous societal inequalities, it is crucial to acknowledge
and address these disparities to cultivate greater empathy and passion within society.
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