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Wow, who knew that ... timeouts (!) ... were the problem with society? Let me just suggest that it is not the *form* of discipline that is the/a cause of the problem, but rather the absence of discipline altogether. There are responsible ways to handle discipline using (a) exclusively timeouts and other forms of non-physical discipline (as I am using on my children); and (b) spankings and other forms of both physical and non-physical discipline (as my parents used on me). I am a healthy and balanced person (although the occasional coach and fan doesn't necessarily see it that way!) and my children appear to be healthy and balanced. Just because my children do not get spanked does *not* mean that they get to do whatever they want....
Since the original post was to Whitlock's article, let me observe that Whitlock did *not* say that the incident itself occurred because of race. He suggested that Stern's response to the incident was informed by race and culture considerations. Although I agree that, as a general matter, Whitlock is more ready to see race in situations than I am, I am not ready to dismiss his observations altogether. Whitlock wrote: "We're witnessing a clash of cultures. A predominately white fan base is rejecting a predominately black style of play and sportsmanship." Another forum participant suggested that sportsmanship has no color. On this point, I tend to agree more with Whitlock. I think there are differences in "sportsmanship" -- while I should also quickly point out that many differences cannot be, and should not be, explained by race. Sportsmanship, to me, is about showing respect for the game, for your opponent(s) and for yourself (collectively, as a team, and individually). I recognize that there are differences in what this means. Can the exuberance that an athlete shows for a good play s/he made cross the line and show disrespect? I think so. Can exuberance be "innocently intended" and not meant for disrespect? I think so.
I just think that all of us -- fans, players and other interested parties (including officials) -- ought to not be so quick to take offense. If a guy screams after he blocks my shot in a pick-up game, I think he's a little nuts (after all, it doesn't take much to block my shot...), but whatever. If a person shouts an insult at me, that's really her/his problem, not mine. When Charles Barkley says that "We are first men," I agree with him, but when he says that "if you challenge me I'm going to respond because I am a man" (paraphrasing), I disagree with him. I think I am being an authentic man by being in control of myself and staying disciplined to my values.
The discussion is interesting. I hope we can continue to learn. Let's make lemonade.
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