On The Media #1

This week, I listened to the podcast called Kids These Days, and decided to focus on the story called “In Defense of Trigger Warnings.” Trigger warnings have been a very hot topic as of late, particularly as this new fall semester began and there were universities who issued letters to their students stating that there would be no trigger warnings on their campuses. This professor in the podcast, who teaches philosophy at Cornell, defends the use of trigger warnings. She believes that by issuing them, she can help prepare students for controversial or sensitive subjects that her students will learn about and discuss in her classroom, which is an environment that frequently discusses touchy subjects. She believes it is in the best interest of the students’ mental health to use trigger warnings. Everyone deserves a chance to have their voice heard, but to be able to interact and discuss with a class, some people might need a little extra warning so their thoughts can be properly presented and can be valued as well. She acknowledges that her role as a philosophy teacher is different than a lot of other professors because they don't really have a need for trigger warnings. An algebra class, while very hated by many, is not an environment that would benefit or even have a place for these warnings. However her class delves into issues like rape and combat training, so those who have experienced such have a different psychological approach to dealing with the topic. The professor hits on the idea of culture playing a role when she talks about those who have a more privileged background feel that their free speech is being curtailed. It seems more acceptable for those people who are marginalized to speak about these topics. Trigger warnings may reinforce this idea that those in the center shouldn't contribute in some cases, but that's why the professor believes they shouldn't be mandatory and they should be carefully constructed.

I believe trigger warnings can be a good thing because of how they can help those who have struggled with the topics to be discussed. If someone suffers with an addiction or panic attacks, having the knowledge ahead of time that sensitive issues will be part of the class can prevent these negative occurrences. It gives them a chance to reflect on how their personal experiences will play a role in the discussion. I can only emphasize that the professor noted that these warnings are not to discourage participation or attendance, but to mentally prepare the student. I think that is what we need to focus on with them. They are not here to coddle students or baby them. They are here to help protect the mental health, and often physical health as well, of the participants. Controversial and sensitive issues need to be discussed, but it’s courteous and reasonable to let the students be made aware in advance. I don't see how issuing these trigger warnings disadvantage those students who may not have the sensitivities to the topics, so it can only benefit. It's not coddling. It's a responsible and rational decision that's made to help the students.