George Sodini Discourse.

I have not blogged in a while, but in light of the coverage regarding George Sodini and his shooting of a fitness center, I am being active on this blog again.
And that is just it: all of the feminist and men's rights blogs and internet video channels are ramping up with their take on this tragic event. Between Sodini's blog and Youtube channel, and all of the commentary by others on their internet outlets, much of the suffering involved with this event is seemingly for public consumption. The question is: What will become of it?

Many men have already come out in their own forums or in commenting on feminist blogs that Sodini's actions are inexcusable, which they are. Since Sodini is not likely to receive much sympathy, will this result in more scrutiny of mens rights blogs and channels? This event brings a lot of different issues concerning the sexes to the forefront. Where this discourse will lead is still too early to tell. Will anything be learned, I wonder, or will it be just more internet backbiting?

While Sodini's actions were inexcusable, I can't help but wonder if this event will lead to further social marginalization of those who lack social skills. While Sodini's example is an extreme one, I can't help but wonder if this will lead to unconstructive stereotyping, such as was seen after the Columbine shootings with those wearing dark trenchcoats.

I personally hope this event triggers at least some rational discourse on the issues involved, and not just used as fuel for propaganda on all sides, though I am sure there will be some of that. I just hope that among the media noise that there will be an opportunity for people to stop and think about a few things. I don't think this situation is as simple as it seems. Sodini was clearly disturbed, but writing him off as "crazy" and a "woman hater" somehow seem too simple. I think we now have a chance to discuss some of these issues in a new light without resorting to common finger-pointing.

This is a tough situation for anyone writing on men's rights; I obviously can't defend him, but we need to discuss this in ALL of its facets. I don't think the public can just dismiss him, and those like him, as "losers" and "crazy". As we have seen, the ramifications are all too serious.