It is interesting to see the language used by those who do not want to admit there is a planetary climate crises and want to deny the dangers behind what is happening globally. When those who are knowledgeable about these topics, especially women like Greta or Francesca Albanese talk others will accuse them of “ranting” . They will say the topic is “complicated” (and I talked about this in a previous blog post) and if it is a woman accuse her of “ranting”. Merriam Webster says that the definition of rant to complain loudly, angrily or unreasonably. Well neither Greta or Francesca are unreasonable. They are simply calling out the world on the injustices that are happening. They both make a great effort to not sound “angry”. Maybe they shout. But they are shouting and loud because NOBODY is listening. If your house is on fire you do not whisper “fire”.
Interestingly the word “rant” is rarely applied to men. Men will be called “terrorists” or “dangerous”, People will say they are promoting a dangerous ideology. But it is rare to hear them being accused of ranting.
An old neighbor of mine who continues to support and believe that Israel has not committed Genocid posted a rather offensive video about Abdul el Sayed, the new elected senator from Michigan. The video attempted to portray ALL Muslims as wanting Jews killed. The video basically accused this middle aged American doctor whose entire campaign is about helping ALL AMERICANS of being a terrorist. Which is a bit insane given that all Israelis believe Palestinians should be killed and are enabling the killing at this moment. Every accusation is an admission of guilt. I really LOVE what Ben Moser said about asking people “What do you want for the future???” Not what grudge do you have about the past or what do you think the world owes you. But seriously what do you want for the future –for your children and your grandchildren and what would you give up to ensure their safety and happiness going forward. I personally would give up a lot.