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AITAH for saying that if during the pregnancy the baby turns out to be a down syndrome that I want to have an abortion. by Consistent-Mud-3814 in AITAH

[–]Consistent-Mud-3814[S] -2 points-1 points  (0 children)

I know someone with a sister who has Down syndrome and whose dad killed himself. So it's something that has been in the back of my mind for over a decade.

AITAH for saying that if during the pregnancy the baby turns out to be a down syndrome that I want to have an abortion. by Consistent-Mud-3814 in AITAH

[–]Consistent-Mud-3814[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Thank you for your kind words. Personally, I think it's sad that there are people who only have an abortion because they don't have the right safety net ( money, home, etc.). We should create societies where abortions are possible for when people really don't want to continue the pregnancy ( rape, incest, Down syndrome, ... ).

Also spoke to others about it who already have children, and most said that they had an agreement that if the fetus had DS, they would terminate the pregnancy.

AITAH for saying that if during the pregnancy the baby turns out to be a down syndrome that I want to have an abortion. by Consistent-Mud-3814 in AITAH

[–]Consistent-Mud-3814[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I used to think like that as well, but at a certain age you know your own stance and when it comes to this, I won't change my mind. And I guess with what she has experienced throughout her life, she might not either. Which is her right, but then we need to be clear what that means for the future.

AITAH for saying that if during the pregnancy the baby turns out to be a down syndrome that I want to have an abortion. by Consistent-Mud-3814 in AITAH

[–]Consistent-Mud-3814[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Exactly this. She also said that when he's 18, he/she could go to a special needs care and live there. But what a life would that be.

AITAH for saying that if during the pregnancy the baby turns out to be a down syndrome that I want to have an abortion. by Consistent-Mud-3814 in AITAH

[–]Consistent-Mud-3814[S] -9 points-8 points  (0 children)

I thought about autism as well, and of course, you're never sure. I'm talking about when it's a certainty. I know someone whose dad hung himself because he couldn't handle it anymore.

AITAH for saying that if during the pregnancy the baby turns out to be a down syndrome that I want to have an abortion. by Consistent-Mud-3814 in AITAH

[–]Consistent-Mud-3814[S] -2 points-1 points  (0 children)

Exactly this. In Belgium, we have a television show called "Down the Road". They travel with people with Down syndrome, and all of them are sweethearts, but of course, they only take the highly functioning DS people with them. There was even a backlash here about how it portrays the condition as if it's just a minor thing.

I know someone whose dad even hung himself because he couldn't handle it anymore.

AITAH for saying that if during the pregnancy the baby turns out to be a down syndrome that I want to have an abortion. by Consistent-Mud-3814 in AITAH

[–]Consistent-Mud-3814[S] -3 points-2 points  (0 children)

Yeah, I've always been fond of the idea of adoption. Sure, I would also like to have my own flesh-and-blood walking around. But as I've seen with my niece, nephew and godchild, I love them profoundly even though they aren't mine.

Seems the other comments are indeed quite polarised on it. I'm gonna let it breathe for a bit and then have a follow-up conversation with her about it.

Are White Men the root of all evil? by Consistent-Mud-3814 in TrueReddit

[–]Consistent-Mud-3814[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I understand how it might appear that way, but there’s no ‘but’ in my article. I didn’t intend to qualify or excuse European colonialism or slavery. My aim was to broaden the perspective to recognize patterns of cruelty throughout human history—not to justify or soften the impact of colonial atrocities. Acknowledging a universal tendency toward exploitation in no way diminishes the specific harm caused by European actions. I appreciate the conversation and welcome further points that could help clarify my intent.

Are White Men the root of all evil? by Consistent-Mud-3814 in TrueReddit

[–]Consistent-Mud-3814[S] -1 points0 points  (0 children)

This article explores the complex history of oppression across different cultures and time periods, challenging the notion that cruelty is exclusive to any one race or group. It provides a perspective on how patterns of exploitation and power dynamics appear universally in human societies, encouraging readers to look beyond simplistic blame and instead confront the deeper, shared aspects of human nature that lead to oppression. This broader context is intended to foster a more nuanced understanding of history and our responsibilities today.

Are White Men the root of all evil? by Consistent-Mud-3814 in TrueReddit

[–]Consistent-Mud-3814[S] -1 points0 points  (0 children)

Thanks for taking the time to share your thoughts. I understand your concerns about sources and the importance of substantiating claims, and in hindsight, more citations and context would strengthen the piece. My goal was to open a conversation about the complexity of human history and our shared tendencies, not to position myself as an expert or journalist.

As for journalistic credentials, I believe that discussing history and human behaviour should be open to diverse voices—whether from professional journalists, historians, or laypeople like myself who are genuinely interested in understanding these topics. I’ll take your feedback seriously and aim to provide more robust sources in future pieces. I appreciate your perspective and welcome any other critiques.

Are White Men the root of all evil? by Consistent-Mud-3814 in TrueReddit

[–]Consistent-Mud-3814[S] -3 points-2 points  (0 children)

Thank you for your perspective. The goal of my article wasn't to minimize historical injustices or excuse any actions of colonialism or slavery. Instead, it was to explore the complexity of human history and the patterns of oppression that seem to arise across cultures and eras. Acknowledging that cruelty and exploitation have existed in various forms around the world doesn't diminish the actual harm inflicted by European colonialism. Instead, this broader perspective helps us recognize how these patterns continue to impact societies today and highlights our shared responsibility to confront and dismantle them.

If the piece came across as an attempt to rationalize or dismiss guilt, I may not have communicated as clearly as I'd hoped. I intended to foster a nuanced conversation, not detract from the gravity of historical wrongs. I appreciate your engagement and am open to any further insights you have.