• baritone_edge@lemmy.ml
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    8 months ago

    Obviously racism = bad.

    But genuine question: why is it so common that old and historical figures are judged on modern day ethics? It seems logical to me that if we base people’s past beliefs and actions on present standards that we should judge present beliefs and actions and future moral standards. At least until we can arrive at an absolutely perfect moral standard that will exist all through time. But this seems irrational to me. My rephrase my question: what is unethical about living your life to the best moral standards you can (which is defined and limited by the knowledge and culture of your day).

    • harry_balzac@lemmy.world
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      8 months ago

      He endorsed RFK Junior.

      Also, there have been plenty of people throughout history who lived in “ignorant” cultures who weren’t racist, misogynistic, etc.

      Being afraid of the unlike is natural. Overcoming that fear, makes you civilized.

    • A_Filthy_Weeaboo@lemmy.world
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      8 months ago

      Remember, during American Slavery there were groups of people who were against the racism and slavery during that time…

      It may not have been a massive movement but still.

      It’s not modern thinking

    • protist@mander.xyz
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      8 months ago

      I actually completely agree with your perspective and also have no idea what you’re talking about. Is Pierce Brosnan the historical figure in this scenario?