MinnPost
2.24.15 | Mary Stanik
I may be one of the only people around thinking about Aristotle with regard to “Fifty Shades of Grey,” that wildly successful book and movie tying up the time and wallets of so many people.
But, thanks to a Marquette University professor who told me a certain quote would serve me well if I heeded it well, I’ve indeed had Aristotle on the mind. And these words specifically: “The wise man does not expose himself needlessly to danger, since there are few things for which he cares sufficiently; but he is willing, in great crises, to give even his life, knowing that under certain conditions, it is not worthwhile to live.”
I am not a Greek scholar, but I am reasonably certain Aristotle meant exposing oneself to danger should be reserved for the most critical of situations, such as fighting for the lives or freedom of one’s family, friends or fellow citizens. Or for things that can help make people free, such as the right to vote, or the right to an education. But perhaps not for submitting to those who would seek to control one’s spirit and body through means many would call abuse.
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Consent and trust
Full and informed consent and trust can be difficult patches to navigate at any age. They can be especially tricky for people as young, impressionable and developing as those who make up a large portion of the book and film’s fans. The recent spotlight on college campus rape has finally brought many academic and law enforcement professionals together to promote the idea that “no means no and yes means yes” with regard to sexual activity.
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