Fetishizing Victimhood*
Someone posted recently, presumably in reflection of Americans as a discontented and calloused people, “We seem to have some things in plenty: Cynicism, anger, greed, snobbery, pomposity and scorn among them — humility and compassion not so much.”
Nevertheless, I still see greatness within America and among its people. I do not believe that persons are fundamentally different — no better or worse — than the countless generations, who came before us. I believe that Americans are a caring and giving people. While individual giving is in decline, Americans are collectively among the most charitable persons on earth. I believe that the decline relates not to callousness and uncaring but directly to the expansion and growth of the Nanny State. The more that government does, or is expected to do, the less that individuals are motivated to do for themselves or for others. It is the social and political equivalent of “I gave at the office.”
Additionally, victimhood has become a way of life for not just for the most needy among us but for all but the most prosperous, productive, and accomplished (and it seems to be seeping into those realms as well). There is a complacency and expectation that a mysterious tide will raise all ships. However, the reality looks more like clueless passengers rearranging deck chairs and complaining of the musical selection played by the band as the Titanic sinks (and the passengers are completely unaware of the concurrent danger of an approaching tsunami). Rather than certain rescue, the command may go out, “Every man for himself.”
It may be that the ill-advised decision to sail into hazardous waters will prove fateful. It may be that there are no viable course corrections. It may be that the best that can be salvaged is a cautionary tale about excessive pride and fits of hubris. However, given the dire situation, in which we collectively find ourselves, arguments about graduated levels of victimhood are exceedingly fruitless.
Among a people that fetishizes victimhood, a premium is placed on being a (presumptive or even self-declared) “victim.” Status as a victim supposedly excuses one from contributing productively to his own well being and entitles one to societal charity. One, who is not obligated to contribute to his own well being, certainly cannot be expected to contribute to others. As the class of victims grows, the limited class of producers continues to shrink. Producers lose motivation as the fruits of their efforts are diverted forcibly to others. Producers become frustrated in the face of a seemingly intractable status quo. Finally, they perceive benefit in being “victims” themselves, and they become enamored at the prospect of getting “something for [nearly] nothing.” Without someone at the helm of the ship, it is certain to run aground. Without someone to man the lifeboats, everyone dies.
There are more than ample persons feigning humility and bartering in compassion. I prefer to explore an uncomfortable reality. If that comes across to others as “cynicism, anger, greed, snobbery, pomposity, and scorn,” that is likely because the truth is difficult to appreciate and nearly impossible to discern in a fog of self-serving platitudes and comforting lies.
*Originally written December 1, 2018.
