To the Editor,
A few weeks ago, The Bulletin made reference to 10 of the greatest philosophical principles as set out by the Editor of The Philosopher's Magazine. Of particular interest is the Principle of Charity.
Applied to politics, this principle requires that we not assume the worst of those whose politics differ from ours. In other words, just because you disagree with someone's politics doesn't necessarily make that person corrupt, incompetent or stupid. As the Editor notes, " (this) is a principle more needed now than ever". Especially, it seems, here on Bowen.
Our mayor's outburst, directed against his constituent at a recent meeting, not only violated this principle, it was uncharitable in the more general sense. But, since not one counselor had the courage or the principles to stand up and object, I am certain that the mayor felt fairly confident he would not be held accountable.
Accordingly, the apology Mr. Adelaar offered up last week in this paper was neither directed to the person to whom it was owed, nor was it really an apology at all since he excuses his behaviour by intimating he was provoked. That he would describe his constituent's exercising her legitimate democratic rights as "provocation" is simply inappropriate in a democratic society.
I hope that at some point the mayor will reconsider and offer a real apology: one that is directed specifically to the constituent involved and that does not try to excuse his behaviour.
David Morris
