#whataboutism

I’m tired of this lazy whataboutism that is largely coming from people who just want to feel superior for doing nothing but dooming online, but also is simply comparing apples and oranges. I also had someone in one of my chats say “I get complaining that people weren’t as upset about Mahmoud Khalil” a) people WERE upset about that!!! It was all over the news that people were!!!! But also b) it’s much easier for the average American consumer to hit Disney where it hurts here — there’s a much easier set of actions with clear consequences — than there was with Khalil’s illegal detention. The Trump admin doesn’t have to care about protesters in the same direct way that Disney has to care if they lose a ton of money from the Kimmel cancellation. Which is why Disney reversed so fast.

1. Perceiving Russian culture as apolitical Culture is political. Russia weaponizes its heritage, promoting a 'great Russia' myth to normalize the subjugation of other 'lesser' cultures. Literary classics become tools of cultural supremacy. 2. Perceiving this war as 'fraternal' Russian propaganda portrays Ukraine and Russia as inseparably linked peoples. This concept ignores Ukraine's aspirations for independence and self-determination and imposes the idea that, at the core, we are one and the same. 3. Pushing reconciliation with Russian opposition This narrative ignores the power imbalance. Any dialogue must be on Ukraine's terms, if and when Ukrainians choose. External pressure for reconciliation is unacceptable. Ukraine's agency is non-negotiable. 4. Explaining Ukraine to Ukrainians Explaining Putin's motives, Ukrainian history, Dostoevsky's relevance to Ukraine, and so on implies that you possess superior knowledge of the topic compared to Ukrainians, which is not true. Ukrainians have deep insights into Russia's actions based on historical experience and direct impact. Such explanations, even if well-intentioned, might come across as patronizing or dismissive of Ukrainian expertise. 5. Suggesting capitulation Urging Ukraine to yield? It won't end the war. Russia regroups, and casualties mount later. Ukraine's fight is for survival, severely limiting compromise options. Respect Ukrainians' difficult position and right to determine their future. 6. Whataboutism "Other conflicts exist" isn't a reason to help less – it's a call to help more. Each crisis deserves its own focus. Don't use comparisons to justify inaction on Ukraine. 7. Claiming Ukrainians don't deserve help Questioning a nation's worthiness of aid based on alleged issues can be seen as justifying inaction. It's more constructive to focus on the current situation and humanitarian needs. Consider the actions of the aggressor rather than criticizing those defending themselves. 8. Not my war A nuclear-armed autocracy attacking a democracy is everyone's problem. It's not about values – it's about time. This war isn't yours today, but ignore it, and it'll be at your doorstep tomorrow. Ukraine's front line is democracy's front line. P.S. Consider the Ukrainian perspective and try to imagine their experiences. It’s important to avoid assuming how one might act in their situation. What Ukrainians may need most is genuine understanding and support. The key is to listen and empathize.

This is what a lot of the loudest "activists" who claim to support a certain cause do these days. I say claim, because they do nothing good for the cause (and sometimes only harm it) while also harming other people who are already suffering.

Yes, of course we ache for human life. It is a core principle of Judiasm to preserve it. We don't innately believe in a "Nazi" agenda.