Forum: Online comments on Charlie Kirk’s shooting are troubling
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I agree with Minister for Home Affairs K. Shanmugam that the assassination of Mr Charlie Kirk was despicable, regardless of whether one agreed or disagreed with him ( Charlie Kirk shooting highlights need for law and order in democratic discourse: Shanmugam,
The incident was horrific and heartbreaking. As a husband and father, I cannot imagine the grief and pain that his wife and two young children must be going through.
Though this incident took place in the US, what troubles me greatly is the attitude manifested in many local online comments in the aftermath of the shooting.
Over the past few days, I have seen comments justifying, rationalising or even celebrating the shooting, citing Mr Kirk’s views on a range of topics from the Israel-Hamas conflict to gun rights. While I do not agree with Mr Kirk’s views on these topics, none of these justifies the act of political violence.
The comments are not only insensitive, but they also point to a vicious “us versus them” tribalism. It is concerning to see attitudes like these being expressed by online communities here. If such tribal attitudes are allowed to take root here, it would be highly dangerous for our society moving forward.
To build a democratic society, as we recite in our National Pledge, a basic level of civility and respect in public discourse is non-negotiable. The right response to a differing view is to offer a more compelling view, in a peaceful and persuasive manner.
Violence should never be a response to political or other views that we disagree with.
Darius Lee
