A Conflation Contagion

We have a major problem on our hands.

I call it the 'conflation contagion'.

Discourse at the moment is so rigid and partisan it leaves no room for nuance or logical discipline.

Recent examples of this includes the immigration debate in the United States where someone who voices concern or opposition to illegal immigration is labelled as anti-immigrant. That one can simultaneously be 'pro' immigration and not accept people entering illegally. They're not mutually exclusive positions to hold hold. Indeed, it's a logical and responsible one to hold.

Another example is in the realm of protesting in professional sports. That is, the notion an athlete should use their position and popularity to bring awareness to social issues. Indeed, this can be a good thing.

But should it be in the place of business? Should they be kneeling or sitting during the national anthem during 'employment hours'? I would argue no.

We're conflating being allowed to express an opinion during work hours with being denied the right to such expression if denied at work.

Look at this this way. At your place of business. If you were to kneel during a board room or use it as a launch pad to express your grievance, would this be appropriate? Of course not.

A boss would correctly ask you to 'take it outside'. I'm a business owner. If I had an employee come in and begin to disrupt the work environment - no matter the cause - I have to quell it because I have a responsibility to the BUSINESS and as such to the employees. My approach would be, 'I can't allow it but I'm willing to support you outside work hours'.

You don't have a right to use someone else's platform to protest. 

In the age of Covid-19 a new troubling conflation is taking place. One where countries and public officials are merely making influenza 'disappear' and just counting all flu cases as Covid-19. They're mixing influenza with coronaviruses. 

How can we possibly ever arrive at any kind of truth this way?

Worse, this seems like a recipe for a disastrous perpetual pandemic.

Be aware if you're engaging in conflation contagion.