-----Original Message----- From: Aaron Neumann [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Tuesday, April 13, 2004 6:23 PM To: Laura Waterman Wittstock Subject: RE: [Mpls] Tossing bottles/broken glass
Laura Waterman Wittstock: "Generally I agree with Wizard but I think a little more reference is needed on this observation. I do think people litter as a refusal to comply with perceived authority. However, those that choose this demonstration of defiance are well represented in the middle classes. My experience with litterers who come and go from the corner grocery store and who indulge in university student excesses are in the main from the middle class." Rejecting perceived authority? Partly. I think it's ignorance to the ramifications of one's actions. And if it's from the middle class or otherwise decently educated, then it's "inexcusable ignorance" - a term coined by canvassers back in my days (years) of door-knocking. If you don't know, then you should! "It is real tough for me to say teachers have to change this, parents are responsible, television is responsible, or any other one thing. An education effort would help a lot, but it needs to be broad based." The individual litterer is PRIMARILY responsible. Sure, culture has something to do with it. But this one's a no-brainer. It's called personal responsibility (and I really dislike using that term, but it's apt.) I would agree that a massive educational effort needs to happen for those who don't know/care. But in the meantime, do what I do. Confront litterers you witness - loudly and confidently. Some pick it up, some scoff, most are embarrassed. Aaron Neumann Holland (on a very busy street just feet away from a "convenience" and liquor, mind you, with lots of new litter in my yard every day!) REMINDERS: 1. Think a member has violated the rules? Email the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract ________________________________ Minneapolis Issues Forum - A City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
